That evening, she returned home expecting to find chaos or an empty house. Instead, the kitten was perched in a corner, bright eyes following her. Relief washed over Eliza. She stroked its soft head, amazed at how quickly she’d grown attached to this little survivor.
Naming him Orion came naturally. His wide blue-green eyes glistened like distant constellations, a hint of curiosity lurking within them. At first, Orion was timid, curling tight against Eliza’s ankles whenever the door creaked. Gradually, he ventured out, exploring every nook of the old Maplewood house.