[Success! He's not being mauled so the cat must not mind. Simon smiles pleasantly when the cat moves up into the next smooth of his hand down his back. What a big fluffy cutie. After all this time all it took was almost bleeding to death under a bush, but finally he's able to pet the cat.
Petting him more firmly now, fingers scratching behind his ears and at the back of his neck, Simon chuckles.]
Aren't you just a big love bug, huh?
[It's a good sign that after all that blood lost and the trauma to his little body, that he can still seem so comfortable and accept good pets.]
[ The Cat likes pets as much as any other animal - or at least that's what he tells himself, ignorant of the fact that a stray cat with only animal instinct to go off of and none of the human element might, in pain and scared and confused, be much more bad-tempered than he himself is currently being. He should be more aloof than this, the way he was when he'd watched his Kingdom crowd around this man who'd laugh and tell them he didn't have enough hands nor time to pet them all at once, but still made sure to share attention and food as equally as he could before saying goodbye and going into his work building. That strange, massive hospital-like structure...
Is that why he'd collapsed where he had? Did some part of him remember this human's kindness, and seek him out without even being aware of it?
Fuck, this is getting ridiculous. This isn't some kind of snow white situation where he and this human strike up a common bond, this is just a happy accident that, if pushed, will turn sour just like everything always does when dealing with humans. He can't let this carry on longer than it needs to.
But that hand around his ears and chin does feel good. So good, in fact, that he's very nearly tempted to purr. Especially when he compliments the long yellow fur he takes great pride in maintaining. Uuuugh, okay. He'll enjoy himself tonight, heal up, and tomorrow he'll find some way of taking his leave. Maybe he won't even need to speak up, maybe everything can just go back to normal after this, with no need for anyone to get in too deep over their heads.
He slides a golden eye studiously over the other man, then primly decides that's quite enough - 'love bug' indeed, he wouldn't be talking like that if he knew he was talking to a King - and heads back towards his warm little box. ]
[If only Simon knew the emotional turmoil going on while he happily sits here petting the cat. Really he's not finding it odd that the cat is behaving this way, all cats are different. Maybe another cat would be biting and hissing from the pain, but maybe something about this one understands that he's safe now and can relax, as much as it can relax with it's wounds.
He may have stitched them up and cleaned him up a bit, but he's still in a bit of a rough spot. At some point it seems the petting does become too much and Simon pouts a little as the cat retreats back into the box. The pout doesn't last long though as he's glad he's taken to the box and heated blanket so well.]
Okay okay, I think you've got the right idea. I didn't realize how tired I was either, maybe we should both sleep, huh?
[Pushing up from the floor he'll suddenly feel the weight of the day hitting him. It's pretty late and with all the stuff with the cat he's ready to fall into bed. Stepping around to the side of said bed he'll sit, unbuttoning his shirt and giving it a toss into a nearby hamper, before he's tugging his pants off too. Those join his shirt and he's getting tucked into bed, already yawning.]
Mn... shit I should set my alarm, gotta get up early to call out...
[Fussing with the alarm on his phone he'll plug it in and reaches over to turn the light off beside his bed.]
Night.
[Yes he's saying goodnight to the cat and yes also maybe he struggles to fall asleep even though he's tired, but eventually his breathing does even out and any tossing and turning stops as sleep takes him.]
[ The Cat King sits, curling his large tail around himself, the end flicking idly back and forth as he watches, watches, watches. The human moves around, talking animatedly, as if he expects the cat to understand him. Most humans do this, not expecting that all cats actually can, and usually it's kind of irritating, but... the Cat King finds himself oddly charmed. There's a sweet, disarming kind of genuine quality to this handsome man, and all the mistrust and doubt the Cat normally feels around humans feels a mile away in his company. It's annoying, but it's also kind of nice.
He starts to close his eyes, settling in, lulled to sleep by the sound of his human companion shuffling around. But then he hears the sounds of buttons, and he cracks open an eye only to open them both fully and wide when he realises what's happening. Okay, look. What's he supposed to do? Not look?
He's treated to a smooth chest, taut stomach, gently toned arms, slender legs; a stretch of warm looking skin that is more than a little appealing to look at. Again, the Cat curses his luck that he hasn't appeared as a human to this man yet; but where before he'd only wanted to know his true intention with his Kingdom, now he's wondering if he would have been able to resist a little flirtation with him. Human or not, some things are just impossible for a little kitty to resist.
But then, Simon is turning off the light, and though the Cat can see in the dark, he's left to stew in his own thoughts and the silence. He watches for as long as his eyes will stay open and then, allowing a small quiet purr out as he settles in to the warm blanket, tucking his nose into the fluff of his tail, he'll fall asleep too. ]
[The startling buzz and chirping of his phone when his alarm starts to go off doesn't instantly wake him, but after a couple minutes there's grumbling as he blindly reaches for the phone.]
Nnn... shh shut uuuup.
[And once he's silenced it he almost rolls over and goes back to sleep, until the memory of last night slaps him upside the head. Simon is shuffling and sitting up, turning the light on as he stumbles like a new born faun out of his bed.]
Oh shit, the cat— please be alive, please be okay.
[He's padding past his bed over to the box, hoping it's just curled up in there still, sleeping peacefully.]
[ The Cat is, as it would appear, both alive and okay, but Simon might have a shock when he peers into the box and finds it empty save for the indent in the fluffy blanket where an equally fluffy body once was.
The Cat King had got up at some point during the night to stretch his aching leg, and had ended up wandering the apartment a little, seeing what he could without the convenience of opposable thumbs to open the doors or the full use of his temporarily disabled leg. He's already feeling much better than he did before, though there's an understandable weakness in that limb and a general low level pain thrumming over his senses. More than anything it's his mind keeping him awake, leading him around and around the same useless back-and-forth thoughts that make him feel like he's going crazy. Namely, that while cats don't owe humans anything, this human in particular has only done good things for his Kingdom, and the idea of escaping and disappearing at some point today isn't sitting entirely right with him. So, how to go about expressing thanks... He's not foolish enough to think this human wants a dead rat or mouse on his pillow, so it has to be something good.
He's sitting on the floor in the kitchen when he hears said human wake up, hears him tumble and can easily imagine him stumbling around in his haste to get up... and the Cat rolls his eyes but he can't deny that he's endeared. Even without seeing him, he's weirdly cute in a kind of nerdy way.
He sighs, then meows loudly, before raising a paw to clean it, in the casual way one might file their nails. ]
[Simon is relieved to not see a dead cat in the box, but also. Where is the cat. It could be a bad sign it's not there, maybe it took a turn for the worse and found some place in his apartment to curl up and— no no he doesn't want to think like that, it probably just found some place else it wanted to sleep.
Tugging on some PJ pants he'll pad into the bathroom and peeks into the bathtub. Hm, no cat there. Next is the living room which shares it's space with the kitchen as well, but there's no cat on or around the furniture...]
Huh?
[Following the sound of that meow he'll find the cat sat in the middle of the very tiny kitchen area, having a mini bath as if everything is right as rain.]
What are you doing all the way over here? You really should be resting not walking around on that leg,
[He might be chiding, but he's clearly relieved the cat is okay. In fact it seems to be doing really well considering.]
[ The concern in his voice tugs at the Cat's heartstrings, leading him to wonder when the last time was that he heard someone call out to him with that kind of concern and finding the answer absent. He can hear him padding around, though the apartment is too small for him to go missing for long, and when he rounds into the kitchenette, the Cat can read the relief on his face. Dammit.
The Cat performs a slow blink, the kind of blink people have argued about for centuries and the type the Cat keeps purposefully vague for the simple reason that he thinks it's fun to be a little bemusing. He then lowers the paw he was just lapping at and puts his feet together, sitting prim and proper, patiently waiting.
Ahem, Simon. You've just woken up, sure, but isn't there something important you're forgetting about?
Just in case the human needs a little reminding, the Cat does a little dramatic lick of his chops, then offers up a pointed little meow. ]
[He huffs, amused at the obvious demand. Who could say no to such a cute fluffy face? The last can of cat food he's got just happens to be sitting on the counter, he'd left it there after fishing it out last night when finding food to give the cat before.]
I guess you have point, it is breakfast time.
[Careful, he steps around the cat to empty the can onto another small dish, making sure it's chopped up nicely so the cat doesn't choke trying to eat too big a piece. Bending to set it on the floor for him he'll take a second to pet him as well.]
You seem like you're doing really good... I should still get you to a vet though. Who knows if you've got anything internally going on. They'll probably give me an earful for stitching you up myself too.
[Even if his stitching is really good, it's still dangerous for someone who's not a trained vet to do that so. Yeah. Letting the cat enjoy it's breakfast he'll go back into the bedroom to grab his phone, picking up the dirty dish and bowl of water and bring it with him. He'll rinse the bowl out to fill it with fresh water which he sets down for the cat as well, before he's wandering into the livinroom, scrolling through his contacts.]
Hope you like performance art, I'm about to play the part of totally very sick with the flu guy.
[Simon feels bad calling out, but Harrow and Fairley will manage without him some how. Just for a day, maybe two. He rings Maxine, clearing his throat and sniffling as he waits for the call to connect and what a performance he puts on. Oh poor sick Simon, he feels awful and he's soo sorry he can't make it in. Maxine even insists he takes two days off before he brings it up! She ends the call telling him to take care of himself and he still feels bad lying, but it's for a good cause!
His days off secured, Simon flops onto the couch, sighing.]
Alright, one call down... probably a bunch to go. Let's see what vets are open—
[ The Cat idly wonders how much he'll be able to get out of this human as far as treats and affection and little bits of his life go before his inevitable departure. He doesn't have a timeframe in mind anymore; one night, he'd said, but that was before he kind of started to like the attention, before he realised his wounds might take longer to heal than he'd thought, before he started getting curious.
He accepts the food happily - it's not like he goes around eating cat food often, but with all the sugars in it and the tailored taste, it does feel a little like a treat. It's not comparable to the fresh fish he shares with his Kingdom, but he's definitely not complaining. He even permits his new (temporary) human pet to stroke his fur as he chows down - which, if his Kingdom were here to see, he'd get no end of torment for allowing.
What he is complaining about, however, is the word he hears floating through the small apartment once Simon is done with his (annoyingly endearing) little sick patient routine. Vet. Shit. And he'd been so pleased at the thought of a whole day to be the center of his attention, too...
He looks up, ears perking, then moves quickly - or, as quick as he can with his leg the way it is - to the area of floor before the couch. If he had his full strength he might have leaped up to knock the phone out of his grip or else made some other flashy display to distract him from even bothering to Google vets in the area, but... indisposed as he is, he has to do something else, and though he hasn't had the time to adequately plan this, there really feels like there's nothing else for it. ]
I wouldn't call them, if I were you. [ He says, sitting right front and center in front of the man, and making intense eye contact so he can't mistake where the new voice is coming from. ] Well, you can, but you'll be wasting your time. You won't get me in a carrier. If you even have one.
[Simon is just about to click on the number of a vet when a voice speaks up in front of him. He pauses, peeking over his phone looking confused and then the voice keeps talking... his eyes drop to the cat sitting there looking pointedly at him.]
Uhhhh...
[His mouth hangs slightly open, face twisted in confusion and shock. Surely what's going on is not actually going on?]
Maybe I really am sick, hearing the cat talk to me...
[He'll press the back of his hand to his forehead, then looks at the cat again.]
Maybe I should be booking an appointment for myself.
[ Well, it's not the worst reaction he's had to this stunning reveal, although it's been quite a few years since he did so for a human, and even longer since he's done it as upfront as this. Usually his little comments are left to be chalked up to hallucinations, something misheard, a voice on the wind. But, staring at Simon the way he is, there's very little mistaking who just spoke.
So when he starts talking about booking himself an appointment, the Cat rolls his eyes. ]
You believe whatever you want to believe as long as you drop the idea of taking me to a vet. I don't need it. Do you think I'd be speaking up if I did?
[Closing his eyes and counting to ten in his head he figures that he's just having a really weird morning. Maybe he slept wrong and he's actually still dreaming? Peeking an eye open the cat is still there and still talking. Or at least there's a voice coming from it's general direction. Staring at it in mild confusion he has to be sure...
Giving himself a pinch on his arm Simon winces. Okay, maybe he's not crazy, but THIS is crazy.]
Look I know going to the doctors sucks, but you really should. You didn't see how bad you looked last night before I found you.
[God, why is he talking at this cat like it's totally normal to have a conversation with it? Like he hadn't been talking to the cat before.]
[ Okay, he's got to the addressing him stage quicker than most. He's either indulging the idea that he's lost it, or his logical brain is latching on to the idea that perhaps his world view isn't as broad as he might have once thought. If people can believe in aliens and ghosts, why not talking animals? Aren't they in almost every Disney movie, after all? ]
I felt it. I was dying. I know what that feels like.
[ Having already done it twice and being very reluctant to do it a third time (or ever again, if he can help it), he knows he owes Simon for that and he's working on how to pay him back, but he needs this vet business squared away. ]
I know it sounds like a cop out, but I can't go to the vets. I'm not a normal Cat. And not jut because of the talking thing, before you ask. All cats can talk. We just choose not to.
[ Okay, maybe reel it in a little. No need to give this poor guy too many revelations about catkind right away and explode his brain or something. ]
If you try to take me to the vets, I'll escape and probably hurt myself even more. So, if you can live with that, go ahead and call.
[Okay one: he doesn't believe in ghosts thank you very much, aliens sure, there's no way humans are the only 'intelligent' life in the universe, and two—! Cartoons are not real life!
As for everything else, Simon's mouth opens and closes and he'll make a vague sound of attempting to speak, but just stares at the cat for a moment again. If he pinched himself again would that be too much? ... he does it again with a soft 'ow', pouting. Rubbing at his arm he'll sigh seeming to accept that this is some how his life now. A talking cat.]
I find it hard to believe all cats can talk and just. Don't. You seem like such opinionated little guys.
[With their expressive little faces and meowing and yowling. If he was a cat he wouldn't be able to not say some smart ass remark at some point. But he holds his hands up, his white flag.]
Okay okay, no vet, I get it. Will you at least let me have a look at your leg? I want to make sure the stitches are holding good and clean everything.
[ The Cat watches him, pupils flexing wide and then tight as he observes the gears turning, the physical attempt to bring himself to terms with what's happening, the reasonable manner in which he responds. Perhaps this guy is smarter than he first thought. ]
We are. But that doesn't make humans worth talking to. There's more power in silently judging you than there is letting you know what we think.
[ He says, sitting primly and ignoring the other part of his question for now. In fact, he's displaying pretty perfectly the exact thing he's talking about: silent judgement. ]
Besides. Whether you choose to believe it or not doesn't really matter. You won't hear another Cat speak after me, and if you try and force one to you'll just look crazy.
[ His whiskers twitch, like he's smiling even though his mouth hasn't moved. Then, he stands up onto all four paws, clearly giving himself a little time with the back leg that twinges angrily when he straightens, and nods his head, tail high and proud. ]
[ Honoured. The Cat feels like scoffing, because it was more sheer reluctance that got him to talk, surely! He definitely wasn't planning to speak up to thank him or anything!
But the pause and the question has him biting back his tongue from protesting too much. It's very rare a human asks to touch a Cat before touching them, and yes the Cat has already made it clear he's no normal Cat, but that has rarely stopped people in the past. There's something about a creature smaller than yourself that makes humans feel entitled to take it wherever they please, and particularly in a situation like this one where the animal is somewhat indisposed, people can get incredibly handsy. But not this one. This one, as well as being kind and patient and understanding, has the audacity to be respectful as well.
He huffs a breath out of his nose. ]
Yes. [ He says, tail flicking a little behind him, signalling his frustration, though not with Simon. ] You may.
[The way the cat holds itself and flucks it tail, like some prince or king waving over staff to remove his cape or something. It's almost cute, but probably just because he's a cat. Or a cat but not a normal one.
Whatever that means.
Consent given Simon carefully scoops the cat up and onto his lap, scratching absently behind his ears as he has a look at his wound. It looks remarkably better, better than it should after how bad the cat had been when he first found him. He's a doctor and his stitch work is immaculate, but the cat coming back from what seemed like the brink of death when he found it is crazy.]
[ This is a smart human. The ear scratch is a good distraction, taking his mind in two directions as he stretches his leg out to give him a better look at his work. He's still missing fur from various parts of his body, is still a little generally roughed up looking, but for the most part he's healing well. He's done a few days worth of healing in just a handful of hours. So Simon's magical cat question really isn't that crazy an ask. ]
Kind of.
[ The Cat debates leaving it at that, but the knowledge of what Simon has done for him is heavy in his mind. Not only that, he almost wants to tell him. To see his reaction, to reveal this secret he almost never reveals to anyone. ]
I'm a Cat King. So yeah, I have magic, but I don't just use it to heal. [ And having told him that much, the rest just seems to tumble out. ] If you'd left me under that bush I would have died and reincarnated as another cat. Because you didn't, I had the chance to heal from it. Which is why I look better right now than a normal cat should the day after getting fucked up by dogs.
[Poor kitty is missing some patches of fur and not just from him cutting some away to clean his wounds to stitch them. The dogs had clearly yanked some out too, but all things considered the cat looks in good condition.
Simon pets him down along his back now, listening to everything he's told. It all still seems so crazy, but it's hard to deny with the literal talking cat in his lap. His hand stills when the cat says he would have died and reincarnated...?]
I did. Once. This is my third life. That's how I know what dying feels like.
[ He's not at all sure why he's telling Simon all this in the first place, but that part especially isn't something he likes to toss around so easily. Knowing he's died twice already shows weakness, doesn't it? And weaknesses can be exploited, and if the Cat King is being honest with himself, he has far too many of them to go giving them out to sweet, kind humans with soft hands and a generous nature. And yet, as Simon studies his wounds and pets him so carefully, he finds he can't stop. ]
I'm hundreds of years old. Maybe even thousands. I meant what I said when I told you I'm no ordinary cat.
[His hand pauses mid pet, before it comes to rest on the cat's back. That's a lot to take in, all of this is, a thing he'll be thinking on repeat for the rest of the day no doubt.]
Guess I don't have to ask what happens after all nine are used up...
[Said quietly, hand starting to pet again, slower.]
But hey, you look spry for being possibly thousands of years old and uh, a cat that's not ordinary? Soooo... is that why you were always watching me around the others? Like you're some great cat protector?
[ To the Cat this is all dreadfully commonplace, just a simple fact of life, and it's been so long since he's talked to someone not even the slightest bit supernatural that he has to take great care not to breeze through the whole thing as if it were well known knowledge. That said, Simon really is handling it well, all things considered. Though he wouldn't put it past the guy to do some furious folklore googling later on, or even to check in with a nurse to make sure he's not growing a tumour the size of a man's fist that's making him hallucinate or whatever.
At the mention of his careful surveillance, the Cat King can't help but huff a little laugh. ]
The role of a Cat King is to take care of the Kingdom. I had to make sure you weren't starting a stray cull or anything with those little baggies of treats. Makes sense they'd send in someone as unassuming as you. But no, you were just... [ He sighs, quietly. ] Being nice.
A cull? No I mean... I was hoping to get their trust and maybe work with a group to try and have as many of the cats I could checked out? Get all their shots and stuff. Spayed and neutered... stuff that helps with big stray populations.
[He doesn't think that sounds bad, but as he sits there after saying it he wonders if that'll be seen as wicked and terrible in the eyes of this so called cat king. Simon adds as if to clarify.]
I just wanted to make sure they're okay and healthy.
[ The Cat knew that from the first or second time he watched him and saw the way Simon was patient and charmed by those in his Kingdom eager enough to take the risk of being close to him. Simon never once shooed them, kicked them out of the way, lifted them without asking or grumbled about their obvious greediness. He was kind the entire time. ]
That's why you were free to carry on doing what you were doing. If I didn't approve, I'd have made that clear.
[ How, exactly, he would have done such a thing remains a mystery. The Cat doesn't think that divulging to Simon that his cats can and will overcome humans on command is something that will go down super well. So he keeps that to himself for now.
He pauses then, tail swishing fitfully through the air, clearly deliberating something for a while before speaking up again. ]
... I should thank you. For being kind to them. Cats are pretty solitary creatures, but years of domestication have made the younger ones... Eager for company. [ He was going to say stupid, but he's trying to be nice. And besides, he himself has been known to long for company once or twice in his lifetimes, and he's not falling into the trap of calling himself an idiot too. ] Sometimes it gets them in trouble. It's not often someone gives a shit enough to think about their wellbeing for the future. So thank you for that.
..... And for saving my life. Though I don't like being in anyone's debt. So I'll think of something other than a simple thank you to set us even for that.
[He may not have grumbled about the greediness of the cats when he gave them treats and food, but he did comment on it. They were greedy little gremlins, but he adored it. A good bit of his hard earned money went towards these hungry little bottomless pits! He didn't mind though, he was happy if they were happy.]
Oh you don't— really you don't owe me anything. I'm just glad you're doing better.
[And that he's apparently going crazy talking to a cat, but there are worse things he guesses. Simon gives him another scritch behind the ears, before reaching for his phone.]
Though... since I have you here, I do have to get some more food for your hungry subjects and you. You just ate my last can of wet food. What's your preference?
[As he pets the cat with one hand he's scrolling his local grocery store's website, getting ready to order a delivery.]
Pate? Shreads? Do you like the stuff with extra gravy?
[ The Cat squints ever so slightly at Simon's gentle refusal for anything further. That may be all well and good for him, but the Cat feels the difference in effort between them like a physical weight. Normally it'd be all well and good to shrug and let him do whatever he wants without the promise of repayment if it was for the good of his kingdom... but saving his life is a little more important than just being kind to his cats.
If he had all his power, perhaps he'd change form right here and pluck the phone out of his hand and order some of the finest freshly caught tuna rather than whatever he can find crammed into a can at the supermarket. That'd give him plenty of reason to want repayment, wouldn't it? And then perhaps the Cat could more efficiently bully his way into his space and find out what it is this human wants. It's impossible to be so selfless, so giving, so kind, without wanting something.
He tries to reach for his magic, but he's still so weary from his ordeal. Another day, maybe even a few hours, and it should be enough... but for right now, this is his lot.
He huffs a frustrated sound that he manages to shift more into the shape of laughter at Simon's question. ]
They're not fussy. They're strays. If you're asking what a King prefers, it's something that doesn't come in a can. [ He flicks his tail, curious. ] You've never wondered why I haven't eaten anything you've offered to us before? It's like eating fast food when you're more accustomed to steak.
[Those golden eyes thin out at him and he wonders if he's said something offensive? When the cat explains their taste in food he assumes that's what the offense was. How dare he suggest a king eat from a can!]
Oh I see, cans not for thee but for thy subjects?
[Simon can't help the amused smile tugging at his lips. Honestly this seems very cat like, picky and choosy, but the cat is cute so he guesses he's allowed to be. Giving a good scratch behind the cat's ears he'll hum, thinking.]
So all this time if I'd showed up with a fresh fish you'd have trotted over and eaten with the others? Or does a king deserve his own special fish?
[Sorry sorry, he can't help but tease just a little. Guess he's getting fish delivered. As he's filling his cart on the app he pauses, peering down at the cat.]
... uh, if I bought cat litter would you be insulted?
[ The Cat can't help but be a little amused by Simon's teasing, and makes a show of rolling his golden eyes, but he still lifts his chin ever so slightly to push into the hand scratching at his ears, as though he's only letting him get away with such an insult because he gives very good pets. ]
I'm used to catching my own food. Out by the docks.
[ Maybe he shouldn't be telling Simon this, but in all reality, what is a human going to do against a host of cats? He'd be sad to set the kitty cyclone on Simon if he ever posed a threat, but he'd do it for the sake of his Kingdom if he were to ever try. But, it's hard to imagine this soft-mannered and kind man doing anything that might put him or his cats in danger, so divulging the general area of where his Kingdom is doesn't feel like that much of a misstep. ]
I still wouldn't have eaten anything you gave me, I was too busy trying to figure you out. But maybe if you keep some freeze-dried fish in your pocket the next time, I'll come along.
[ At the cat litter question, he barks a laugh. ] Don't bother. I won't use it.
[ Is that because he's a magical cat or because he's got plans to shit in Simon's shoes? Who knows! ]
[The docks? Simon wonders if Cat had ever seen or interacted with Harrow? The Bettie was always docked right there after all.]
If you tell me you don't poop because you're not like other cats I'm going to laugh.
[But okay, no litter. No canned food, not for his highness anyway. Adding some fresh fish to his delivery cart... shrimp too, maybe for himself. Among some other things he needs, it's all set so he'll order that and well. Now they wait.]
Sorry this fish won't be fresh from the water, but it won't be frozen. Hope that's better than canned.
[ The level of consideration is still just as touching as it ever was — even though the Cat is being pompous and a little ungrateful, Simon is still treating him fair and even, some might say, spoling him.
It's confusing. It's perplexing. It's wildly, wildly addictive. It's been a long time since anyone looked after him, and he can say he doesn't want it until he's blue in the face, but it won't make it any less true.
But there's a reason he hasn't felt it for a long time, and a reason why he can't let himself get used to it now. ]
How long, exactly, do you think I'm going to be here, Simon?
[Has the cat considered that it's hard not to spoil a cute kitty? Even one that can talk and is a king? Pompous and a little ungrateful just seems like a cat thing to be honest, though not all cats.]
A couple days at least? What? Are you going to hold it in? That can't be healthy.
Stop talking about my litter box habits and listen to me.
[ You infuriatingly handsome, kind and considerate little— ]
I'll probably be gone by tomorrow evening. It doesn't take me long to heal, and I prefer to rest up amongst my own kind. It's nothing personal.
[ Simon has just bought fish for him, which was sweet, but there's nothing stopping him from delivering that to the Kingdom, if Cat lets him know where it is. So that his cats stop hounding him on the way to work...
That definitely isn't being sensible, but the idea of cutting Simon off completely... also doesn't feel right. ]
[Simon is oddly bummed that the cat will only be here a day at the most. Maybe for the best, if his landlord found out he'd get a stern word about it.
And still, this is probably a weird fever dream. He'll wake up in a couple days and none of this will have happened. Simon gives a little scritch at the cat's head before clearing his throat.]
Probably should let you rest up then and while I've got all this free time I can study. Exam coming up.
[He sighs. It's weird though, he should be at work. Everyone must think he's on his death bed, he never calls out.]
Your fish will be here in about an hour... probably. Depends on how busy it is.
[ It comes out of the Cat so easily, weak as he is to those little sighs. Simon might as well be pouting his pretty bottom lip for the way the Cat rolls right over and acquiesces. He thumps his head softly against Simon's hand, feeling the instinctive feline urge to soothe a human whose mood just turned and not entirely hating himself for it, even though he was kind of the cause for it in the first place. But who can blame a human for being disappointed at not having a cute kitty around, right? ]
I'm not a pet, Simon, but I'm not fucking stupid either. I need you and this warm little apartment, or I'll be right back at square one. Worse, someone will see me, and the whole reason I almost died in the first place will come back and bite me in the ass. For now, this is where I sleep and eat. And I'm pretty sure you don't need two hands to study, so I'll curl up in your lap, and you can pet me while you work.
[ There! Now stop looking all disheartened like that. ]
And, if you must know, I'm a shapeshifting cat spirit. I'm basically a god. So while I can eat and drink and do everything a typical body can, I don't have any of the annoying parts to deal with. So no litter box required.
[Simon sputters. How dare this cat call him out? The cat is lucky it's so dang cute.]
Alright, okay. You're right, don't get a big head about it, Your Majesty.
[Does then carefully nudge the cat to move off his lap, but does not shoo him off the couch.]
Let me go grab my stuff and you can help me study.
[Which Simon does, getting his laptop and a couple books and the like. Returning to the couch he gets everything all set up, before sitting beside the cat again. Absently he reaches over to pet him, the cat's presense warm and soothing.]
... so what do I call basically a god that doesn't poop?
A Cat King, like I said. It's what I am as well as a title. But if you're asking about a name, I don't have one anymore.
[ The information falls out of him easily, all that worry about divulging too much soothed by the fact that Simon is, unavoidably, a good person. He's content at the idea of sitting here with him for the rest of the evening, eating whatever he's bought for him, maybe even hopping up onto his bed to commandeer one of his pillows to sleep on if he feels strong enough to do it.
Or he could let him lift him, he supposes. He wouldn't mind being picked up by those careful hands again, getting closer to that handsome face to watch him sleep. In a totally not weird way. It's just been a while since he had any targeted attention like this, that's all.
The Cat tucks in a little tighter, purring in response to the fingers running across his fur. He should be letting him study, but curiosity has a long history with Cats, so he asks: ]
What is it you're studying for? Aren't you already a doctor?
No name? Soooo... is it Your Majesty then? Or uh Fluffy?
[Is Fluffy disrespectful? Maybe it's so nice to have a talking cat around because he's not realized how alone he's been. After the break up with David and moving into his own place he thought it was fine, towards the end of the relationship they barely saw each other anyway. But the moments when he was here alone in his flat had been so quiet, he'd just not realized.
Even when there's no talking the purring is delightful too.]
Technically yeah. I'm a junior pathologists' assistant, but I have to continue my education to stay certified so I can keep working.
[He pulls up a website that he's got his courses on, along with a book and notebook.]
I'd like to be board-certified one day, be the one with the assistant instead.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
no subject
Petting him more firmly now, fingers scratching behind his ears and at the back of his neck, Simon chuckles.]
Aren't you just a big love bug, huh?
[It's a good sign that after all that blood lost and the trauma to his little body, that he can still seem so comfortable and accept good pets.]
And really soft.
no subject
Is that why he'd collapsed where he had? Did some part of him remember this human's kindness, and seek him out without even being aware of it?
Fuck, this is getting ridiculous. This isn't some kind of snow white situation where he and this human strike up a common bond, this is just a happy accident that, if pushed, will turn sour just like everything always does when dealing with humans. He can't let this carry on longer than it needs to.
But that hand around his ears and chin does feel good. So good, in fact, that he's very nearly tempted to purr. Especially when he compliments the long yellow fur he takes great pride in maintaining. Uuuugh, okay. He'll enjoy himself tonight, heal up, and tomorrow he'll find some way of taking his leave. Maybe he won't even need to speak up, maybe everything can just go back to normal after this, with no need for anyone to get in too deep over their heads.
He slides a golden eye studiously over the other man, then primly decides that's quite enough - 'love bug' indeed, he wouldn't be talking like that if he knew he was talking to a King - and heads back towards his warm little box. ]
no subject
He may have stitched them up and cleaned him up a bit, but he's still in a bit of a rough spot. At some point it seems the petting does become too much and Simon pouts a little as the cat retreats back into the box. The pout doesn't last long though as he's glad he's taken to the box and heated blanket so well.]
Okay okay, I think you've got the right idea. I didn't realize how tired I was either, maybe we should both sleep, huh?
[Pushing up from the floor he'll suddenly feel the weight of the day hitting him. It's pretty late and with all the stuff with the cat he's ready to fall into bed. Stepping around to the side of said bed he'll sit, unbuttoning his shirt and giving it a toss into a nearby hamper, before he's tugging his pants off too. Those join his shirt and he's getting tucked into bed, already yawning.]
Mn... shit I should set my alarm, gotta get up early to call out...
[Fussing with the alarm on his phone he'll plug it in and reaches over to turn the light off beside his bed.]
Night.
[Yes he's saying goodnight to the cat and yes also maybe he struggles to fall asleep even though he's tired, but eventually his breathing does even out and any tossing and turning stops as sleep takes him.]
no subject
He starts to close his eyes, settling in, lulled to sleep by the sound of his human companion shuffling around. But then he hears the sounds of buttons, and he cracks open an eye only to open them both fully and wide when he realises what's happening. Okay, look. What's he supposed to do? Not look?
He's treated to a smooth chest, taut stomach, gently toned arms, slender legs; a stretch of warm looking skin that is more than a little appealing to look at. Again, the Cat curses his luck that he hasn't appeared as a human to this man yet; but where before he'd only wanted to know his true intention with his Kingdom, now he's wondering if he would have been able to resist a little flirtation with him. Human or not, some things are just impossible for a little kitty to resist.
But then, Simon is turning off the light, and though the Cat can see in the dark, he's left to stew in his own thoughts and the silence. He watches for as long as his eyes will stay open and then, allowing a small quiet purr out as he settles in to the warm blanket, tucking his nose into the fluff of his tail, he'll fall asleep too. ]
no subject
Nnn... shh shut uuuup.
[And once he's silenced it he almost rolls over and goes back to sleep, until the memory of last night slaps him upside the head. Simon is shuffling and sitting up, turning the light on as he stumbles like a new born faun out of his bed.]
Oh shit, the cat— please be alive, please be okay.
[He's padding past his bed over to the box, hoping it's just curled up in there still, sleeping peacefully.]
no subject
The Cat King had got up at some point during the night to stretch his aching leg, and had ended up wandering the apartment a little, seeing what he could without the convenience of opposable thumbs to open the doors or the full use of his temporarily disabled leg. He's already feeling much better than he did before, though there's an understandable weakness in that limb and a general low level pain thrumming over his senses. More than anything it's his mind keeping him awake, leading him around and around the same useless back-and-forth thoughts that make him feel like he's going crazy. Namely, that while cats don't owe humans anything, this human in particular has only done good things for his Kingdom, and the idea of escaping and disappearing at some point today isn't sitting entirely right with him. So, how to go about expressing thanks... He's not foolish enough to think this human wants a dead rat or mouse on his pillow, so it has to be something good.
He's sitting on the floor in the kitchen when he hears said human wake up, hears him tumble and can easily imagine him stumbling around in his haste to get up... and the Cat rolls his eyes but he can't deny that he's endeared. Even without seeing him, he's weirdly cute in a kind of nerdy way.
He sighs, then meows loudly, before raising a paw to clean it, in the casual way one might file their nails. ]
no subject
[Simon is relieved to not see a dead cat in the box, but also. Where is the cat. It could be a bad sign it's not there, maybe it took a turn for the worse and found some place in his apartment to curl up and— no no he doesn't want to think like that, it probably just found some place else it wanted to sleep.
Tugging on some PJ pants he'll pad into the bathroom and peeks into the bathtub. Hm, no cat there. Next is the living room which shares it's space with the kitchen as well, but there's no cat on or around the furniture...]
Huh?
[Following the sound of that meow he'll find the cat sat in the middle of the very tiny kitchen area, having a mini bath as if everything is right as rain.]
What are you doing all the way over here? You really should be resting not walking around on that leg,
[He might be chiding, but he's clearly relieved the cat is okay. In fact it seems to be doing really well considering.]
no subject
The Cat performs a slow blink, the kind of blink people have argued about for centuries and the type the Cat keeps purposefully vague for the simple reason that he thinks it's fun to be a little bemusing. He then lowers the paw he was just lapping at and puts his feet together, sitting prim and proper, patiently waiting.
Ahem, Simon. You've just woken up, sure, but isn't there something important you're forgetting about?
Just in case the human needs a little reminding, the Cat does a little dramatic lick of his chops, then offers up a pointed little meow. ]
no subject
I guess you have point, it is breakfast time.
[Careful, he steps around the cat to empty the can onto another small dish, making sure it's chopped up nicely so the cat doesn't choke trying to eat too big a piece. Bending to set it on the floor for him he'll take a second to pet him as well.]
You seem like you're doing really good... I should still get you to a vet though. Who knows if you've got anything internally going on. They'll probably give me an earful for stitching you up myself too.
[Even if his stitching is really good, it's still dangerous for someone who's not a trained vet to do that so. Yeah. Letting the cat enjoy it's breakfast he'll go back into the bedroom to grab his phone, picking up the dirty dish and bowl of water and bring it with him. He'll rinse the bowl out to fill it with fresh water which he sets down for the cat as well, before he's wandering into the livinroom, scrolling through his contacts.]
Hope you like performance art, I'm about to play the part of totally very sick with the flu guy.
[Simon feels bad calling out, but Harrow and Fairley will manage without him some how. Just for a day, maybe two. He rings Maxine, clearing his throat and sniffling as he waits for the call to connect and what a performance he puts on. Oh poor sick Simon, he feels awful and he's soo sorry he can't make it in. Maxine even insists he takes two days off before he brings it up! She ends the call telling him to take care of himself and he still feels bad lying, but it's for a good cause!
His days off secured, Simon flops onto the couch, sighing.]
Alright, one call down... probably a bunch to go. Let's see what vets are open—
no subject
He accepts the food happily - it's not like he goes around eating cat food often, but with all the sugars in it and the tailored taste, it does feel a little like a treat. It's not comparable to the fresh fish he shares with his Kingdom, but he's definitely not complaining. He even permits his new (temporary) human pet to stroke his fur as he chows down - which, if his Kingdom were here to see, he'd get no end of torment for allowing.
What he is complaining about, however, is the word he hears floating through the small apartment once Simon is done with his (annoyingly endearing) little sick patient routine. Vet. Shit. And he'd been so pleased at the thought of a whole day to be the center of his attention, too...
He looks up, ears perking, then moves quickly - or, as quick as he can with his leg the way it is - to the area of floor before the couch. If he had his full strength he might have leaped up to knock the phone out of his grip or else made some other flashy display to distract him from even bothering to Google vets in the area, but... indisposed as he is, he has to do something else, and though he hasn't had the time to adequately plan this, there really feels like there's nothing else for it. ]
I wouldn't call them, if I were you. [ He says, sitting right front and center in front of the man, and making intense eye contact so he can't mistake where the new voice is coming from. ] Well, you can, but you'll be wasting your time. You won't get me in a carrier. If you even have one.
no subject
Uhhhh...
[His mouth hangs slightly open, face twisted in confusion and shock. Surely what's going on is not actually going on?]
Maybe I really am sick, hearing the cat talk to me...
[He'll press the back of his hand to his forehead, then looks at the cat again.]
Maybe I should be booking an appointment for myself.
no subject
So when he starts talking about booking himself an appointment, the Cat rolls his eyes. ]
You believe whatever you want to believe as long as you drop the idea of taking me to a vet. I don't need it. Do you think I'd be speaking up if I did?
no subject
Giving himself a pinch on his arm Simon winces. Okay, maybe he's not crazy, but THIS is crazy.]
Look I know going to the doctors sucks, but you really should. You didn't see how bad you looked last night before I found you.
[God, why is he talking at this cat like it's totally normal to have a conversation with it? Like he hadn't been talking to the cat before.]
no subject
I felt it. I was dying. I know what that feels like.
[ Having already done it twice and being very reluctant to do it a third time (or ever again, if he can help it), he knows he owes Simon for that and he's working on how to pay him back, but he needs this vet business squared away. ]
I know it sounds like a cop out, but I can't go to the vets. I'm not a normal Cat. And not jut because of the talking thing, before you ask. All cats can talk. We just choose not to.
[ Okay, maybe reel it in a little. No need to give this poor guy too many revelations about catkind right away and explode his brain or something. ]
If you try to take me to the vets, I'll escape and probably hurt myself even more. So, if you can live with that, go ahead and call.
no subject
As for everything else, Simon's mouth opens and closes and he'll make a vague sound of attempting to speak, but just stares at the cat for a moment again. If he pinched himself again would that be too much? ... he does it again with a soft 'ow', pouting. Rubbing at his arm he'll sigh seeming to accept that this is some how his life now. A talking cat.]
I find it hard to believe all cats can talk and just. Don't. You seem like such opinionated little guys.
[With their expressive little faces and meowing and yowling. If he was a cat he wouldn't be able to not say some smart ass remark at some point. But he holds his hands up, his white flag.]
Okay okay, no vet, I get it. Will you at least let me have a look at your leg? I want to make sure the stitches are holding good and clean everything.
[At the least!]
no subject
We are. But that doesn't make humans worth talking to. There's more power in silently judging you than there is letting you know what we think.
[ He says, sitting primly and ignoring the other part of his question for now. In fact, he's displaying pretty perfectly the exact thing he's talking about: silent judgement. ]
Besides. Whether you choose to believe it or not doesn't really matter. You won't hear another Cat speak after me, and if you try and force one to you'll just look crazy.
[ His whiskers twitch, like he's smiling even though his mouth hasn't moved. Then, he stands up onto all four paws, clearly giving himself a little time with the back leg that twinges angrily when he straightens, and nods his head, tail high and proud. ]
Fine. You can take a look.
no subject
[Simon pauses as he starts to lean down, considering something.]
Uh... may I pick you up?
[Now that he knows it can talk it seems rude to just man handle him.]
no subject
But the pause and the question has him biting back his tongue from protesting too much. It's very rare a human asks to touch a Cat before touching them, and yes the Cat has already made it clear he's no normal Cat, but that has rarely stopped people in the past. There's something about a creature smaller than yourself that makes humans feel entitled to take it wherever they please, and particularly in a situation like this one where the animal is somewhat indisposed, people can get incredibly handsy. But not this one. This one, as well as being kind and patient and understanding, has the audacity to be respectful as well.
He huffs a breath out of his nose. ]
Yes. [ He says, tail flicking a little behind him, signalling his frustration, though not with Simon. ] You may.
no subject
Whatever that means.
Consent given Simon carefully scoops the cat up and onto his lap, scratching absently behind his ears as he has a look at his wound. It looks remarkably better, better than it should after how bad the cat had been when he first found him. He's a doctor and his stitch work is immaculate, but the cat coming back from what seemed like the brink of death when he found it is crazy.]
... so are you a magical healing cat?
[It's a joke but also...]
no subject
Kind of.
[ The Cat debates leaving it at that, but the knowledge of what Simon has done for him is heavy in his mind. Not only that, he almost wants to tell him. To see his reaction, to reveal this secret he almost never reveals to anyone. ]
I'm a Cat King. So yeah, I have magic, but I don't just use it to heal. [ And having told him that much, the rest just seems to tumble out. ] If you'd left me under that bush I would have died and reincarnated as another cat. Because you didn't, I had the chance to heal from it. Which is why I look better right now than a normal cat should the day after getting fucked up by dogs.
no subject
Simon pets him down along his back now, listening to everything he's told. It all still seems so crazy, but it's hard to deny with the literal talking cat in his lap. His hand stills when the cat says he would have died and reincarnated...?]
... so you have nine lives? Like literally?
no subject
[ He's not at all sure why he's telling Simon all this in the first place, but that part especially isn't something he likes to toss around so easily. Knowing he's died twice already shows weakness, doesn't it? And weaknesses can be exploited, and if the Cat King is being honest with himself, he has far too many of them to go giving them out to sweet, kind humans with soft hands and a generous nature. And yet, as Simon studies his wounds and pets him so carefully, he finds he can't stop. ]
I'm hundreds of years old. Maybe even thousands. I meant what I said when I told you I'm no ordinary cat.
no subject
Guess I don't have to ask what happens after all nine are used up...
[Said quietly, hand starting to pet again, slower.]
But hey, you look spry for being possibly thousands of years old and uh, a cat that's not ordinary? Soooo... is that why you were always watching me around the others? Like you're some great cat protector?
no subject
At the mention of his careful surveillance, the Cat King can't help but huff a little laugh. ]
The role of a Cat King is to take care of the Kingdom. I had to make sure you weren't starting a stray cull or anything with those little baggies of treats. Makes sense they'd send in someone as unassuming as you. But no, you were just... [ He sighs, quietly. ] Being nice.
no subject
[He doesn't think that sounds bad, but as he sits there after saying it he wonders if that'll be seen as wicked and terrible in the eyes of this so called cat king. Simon adds as if to clarify.]
I just wanted to make sure they're okay and healthy.
no subject
[ The Cat knew that from the first or second time he watched him and saw the way Simon was patient and charmed by those in his Kingdom eager enough to take the risk of being close to him. Simon never once shooed them, kicked them out of the way, lifted them without asking or grumbled about their obvious greediness. He was kind the entire time. ]
That's why you were free to carry on doing what you were doing. If I didn't approve, I'd have made that clear.
[ How, exactly, he would have done such a thing remains a mystery. The Cat doesn't think that divulging to Simon that his cats can and will overcome humans on command is something that will go down super well. So he keeps that to himself for now.
He pauses then, tail swishing fitfully through the air, clearly deliberating something for a while before speaking up again. ]
... I should thank you. For being kind to them. Cats are pretty solitary creatures, but years of domestication have made the younger ones... Eager for company. [ He was going to say stupid, but he's trying to be nice. And besides, he himself has been known to long for company once or twice in his lifetimes, and he's not falling into the trap of calling himself an idiot too. ] Sometimes it gets them in trouble. It's not often someone gives a shit enough to think about their wellbeing for the future. So thank you for that.
..... And for saving my life. Though I don't like being in anyone's debt. So I'll think of something other than a simple thank you to set us even for that.
no subject
Oh you don't— really you don't owe me anything. I'm just glad you're doing better.
[And that he's apparently going crazy talking to a cat, but there are worse things he guesses. Simon gives him another scritch behind the ears, before reaching for his phone.]
Though... since I have you here, I do have to get some more food for your hungry subjects and you. You just ate my last can of wet food. What's your preference?
[As he pets the cat with one hand he's scrolling his local grocery store's website, getting ready to order a delivery.]
Pate? Shreads? Do you like the stuff with extra gravy?
no subject
If he had all his power, perhaps he'd change form right here and pluck the phone out of his hand and order some of the finest freshly caught tuna rather than whatever he can find crammed into a can at the supermarket. That'd give him plenty of reason to want repayment, wouldn't it? And then perhaps the Cat could more efficiently bully his way into his space and find out what it is this human wants. It's impossible to be so selfless, so giving, so kind, without wanting something.
He tries to reach for his magic, but he's still so weary from his ordeal. Another day, maybe even a few hours, and it should be enough... but for right now, this is his lot.
He huffs a frustrated sound that he manages to shift more into the shape of laughter at Simon's question. ]
They're not fussy. They're strays. If you're asking what a King prefers, it's something that doesn't come in a can. [ He flicks his tail, curious. ] You've never wondered why I haven't eaten anything you've offered to us before? It's like eating fast food when you're more accustomed to steak.
no subject
Oh I see, cans not for thee but for thy subjects?
[Simon can't help the amused smile tugging at his lips. Honestly this seems very cat like, picky and choosy, but the cat is cute so he guesses he's allowed to be. Giving a good scratch behind the cat's ears he'll hum, thinking.]
So all this time if I'd showed up with a fresh fish you'd have trotted over and eaten with the others? Or does a king deserve his own special fish?
[Sorry sorry, he can't help but tease just a little. Guess he's getting fish delivered. As he's filling his cart on the app he pauses, peering down at the cat.]
... uh, if I bought cat litter would you be insulted?
no subject
I'm used to catching my own food. Out by the docks.
[ Maybe he shouldn't be telling Simon this, but in all reality, what is a human going to do against a host of cats? He'd be sad to set the kitty cyclone on Simon if he ever posed a threat, but he'd do it for the sake of his Kingdom if he were to ever try. But, it's hard to imagine this soft-mannered and kind man doing anything that might put him or his cats in danger, so divulging the general area of where his Kingdom is doesn't feel like that much of a misstep. ]
I still wouldn't have eaten anything you gave me, I was too busy trying to figure you out. But maybe if you keep some freeze-dried fish in your pocket the next time, I'll come along.
[ At the cat litter question, he barks a laugh. ] Don't bother. I won't use it.
[ Is that because he's a magical cat or because he's got plans to shit in Simon's shoes? Who knows! ]
no subject
If you tell me you don't poop because you're not like other cats I'm going to laugh.
[But okay, no litter. No canned food, not for his highness anyway. Adding some fresh fish to his delivery cart... shrimp too, maybe for himself. Among some other things he needs, it's all set so he'll order that and well. Now they wait.]
Sorry this fish won't be fresh from the water, but it won't be frozen. Hope that's better than canned.
no subject
It's confusing. It's perplexing. It's wildly, wildly addictive. It's been a long time since anyone looked after him, and he can say he doesn't want it until he's blue in the face, but it won't make it any less true.
But there's a reason he hasn't felt it for a long time, and a reason why he can't let himself get used to it now. ]
How long, exactly, do you think I'm going to be here, Simon?
no subject
A couple days at least? What? Are you going to hold it in? That can't be healthy.
[Okay Mr. Cat bladder expert.]
no subject
[ You infuriatingly handsome, kind and considerate little— ]
I'll probably be gone by tomorrow evening. It doesn't take me long to heal, and I prefer to rest up amongst my own kind. It's nothing personal.
[ Simon has just bought fish for him, which was sweet, but there's nothing stopping him from delivering that to the Kingdom, if Cat lets him know where it is. So that his cats stop hounding him on the way to work...
That definitely isn't being sensible, but the idea of cutting Simon off completely... also doesn't feel right. ]
no subject
[Simon is oddly bummed that the cat will only be here a day at the most. Maybe for the best, if his landlord found out he'd get a stern word about it.
And still, this is probably a weird fever dream. He'll wake up in a couple days and none of this will have happened. Simon gives a little scritch at the cat's head before clearing his throat.]
Probably should let you rest up then and while I've got all this free time I can study. Exam coming up.
[He sighs. It's weird though, he should be at work. Everyone must think he's on his death bed, he never calls out.]
Your fish will be here in about an hour... probably. Depends on how busy it is.
no subject
[ It comes out of the Cat so easily, weak as he is to those little sighs. Simon might as well be pouting his pretty bottom lip for the way the Cat rolls right over and acquiesces. He thumps his head softly against Simon's hand, feeling the instinctive feline urge to soothe a human whose mood just turned and not entirely hating himself for it, even though he was kind of the cause for it in the first place. But who can blame a human for being disappointed at not having a cute kitty around, right? ]
I'm not a pet, Simon, but I'm not fucking stupid either. I need you and this warm little apartment, or I'll be right back at square one. Worse, someone will see me, and the whole reason I almost died in the first place will come back and bite me in the ass. For now, this is where I sleep and eat. And I'm pretty sure you don't need two hands to study, so I'll curl up in your lap, and you can pet me while you work.
[ There! Now stop looking all disheartened like that. ]
And, if you must know, I'm a shapeshifting cat spirit. I'm basically a god. So while I can eat and drink and do everything a typical body can, I don't have any of the annoying parts to deal with. So no litter box required.
no subject
[Simon sputters. How dare this cat call him out? The cat is lucky it's so dang cute.]
Alright, okay. You're right, don't get a big head about it, Your Majesty.
[Does then carefully nudge the cat to move off his lap, but does not shoo him off the couch.]
Let me go grab my stuff and you can help me study.
[Which Simon does, getting his laptop and a couple books and the like. Returning to the couch he gets everything all set up, before sitting beside the cat again. Absently he reaches over to pet him, the cat's presense warm and soothing.]
... so what do I call basically a god that doesn't poop?
no subject
[ The information falls out of him easily, all that worry about divulging too much soothed by the fact that Simon is, unavoidably, a good person. He's content at the idea of sitting here with him for the rest of the evening, eating whatever he's bought for him, maybe even hopping up onto his bed to commandeer one of his pillows to sleep on if he feels strong enough to do it.
Or he could let him lift him, he supposes. He wouldn't mind being picked up by those careful hands again, getting closer to that handsome face to watch him sleep. In a totally not weird way. It's just been a while since he had any targeted attention like this, that's all.
The Cat tucks in a little tighter, purring in response to the fingers running across his fur. He should be letting him study, but curiosity has a long history with Cats, so he asks: ]
What is it you're studying for? Aren't you already a doctor?
no subject
[Is Fluffy disrespectful? Maybe it's so nice to have a talking cat around because he's not realized how alone he's been. After the break up with David and moving into his own place he thought it was fine, towards the end of the relationship they barely saw each other anyway. But the moments when he was here alone in his flat had been so quiet, he'd just not realized.
Even when there's no talking the purring is delightful too.]
Technically yeah. I'm a junior pathologists' assistant, but I have to continue my education to stay certified so I can keep working.
[He pulls up a website that he's got his courses on, along with a book and notebook.]
I'd like to be board-certified one day, be the one with the assistant instead.