Page 111 of Shallow Remains

She had to take them.

Lachlan stepped up beside her and raised a hand to let the gray cat sniff it. He smiled when the cat rubbed its cheek against his fingers. She took that as a positive sign.

“I know you said a cat, but their names are Tera and Byte, and they’re bonded. It’s a sign.” She knew it was.

“Definitely a sign,” Mae agreed.

“Plus they’re seniors, and they’ve been here way too long. They must be so sad and stressed out.” She paused. “What do you think?”

He shook his head slightly, amusement gleaming in his eyes. “I’m supposed to say no to that sales pitch and these furry faces?”

“She’s not wrong,” Mae said to him. “People willing to adopt a senior pet are hard to come by, and it’s tougher still for a bonded senior pair. They could spend another seven months here without any interest at all. Maybe more.”

Lachlan’s mouth twitched at that, but his gaze stayed on Maddy. “Are you sure? You haven’t even tried to hold them or anything.”

“I’m sure.” They would adapt to her and their new home in time, in their own way.

He grinned. “Okay, then. Tera and Byte it is.”

Maddy stifled a squeal and whirled around to face her cats, smiling so wide her cheeks hurt. “Hi, babies. We’re gonna be your new pawrents. I know your new dad is huge compared to you both, but he’s really nice. We’re taking you home today and will take good care of you.”

From now on they would be safe and loved for the rest of their lives in a cozy houseboat floating at the edge of the island.

Just as she would with Lachlan.

—The End⁠—