The apartment is stifling. No a/c. It is one of the hottest days of a heatwave. Too hot to think. He’s not home at least. You need a few things. You have to leave the little old bright green-eyed grey cat, whom everyone mistakes for a kitten, for now. Only for now.

That’s all you’ll think about for days. Knowing she’s missing you & scared. Easier to worry about the cat than yourself right now.

You pack some clothes, some sketchbooks & a pink unicorn stuffed animal.

This is the last time you’ll see the inside of this place. You are leaving for good.

In a hurry, you look back around only to wave to the cat, neither of you wanting to meet eyes; as you hold the soft unicorn close to your heart & run down the long flight of stairs. You’ll be back for her. She knows. You know.

You exit & breathe the hot heavy air. Your bus will arrive soon at the corner. You make your way.

© Niliema Karkhanis