The Book Goddess Reads

I have returned.

My human wept with joy (I assume). I emerged from my travel chariot with grace, gave the house a suspicious sniff, then dramatically flopped in the hallway as if I’d been gone a decade.

The bed still smells like me. The sofa has not moved. All is as it should be.

I’ve done two victory laps of the kingdom. My human followed me around whispering “you’re home” like I’d just returned from war. I allowed it.

And now, in the quiet… I reflect.

The cattery was not… awful.

The blanket travelled with me. So did the special food. The staff were attentive. Polite. They admired my tail. One even called me “a gentleman.” I may have purred once. I will neither confirm nor deny.

And Gerald… oh, Gerald. A fine bird. Loud. Opinionated. I shall miss him.

I return to my thrones now, wiser. A little sun-kissed. With tales to tell and snacks to demand.

But mostly — I’m glad to be home.

The blanket smells like love.

My human still smells like books.

And the bowl is full.

All is well.

Smudge (Returned Monarch, Reflective Traveller)