An Unexpected Gift

Christmas Eve. A scrawny little cat sits on the window ledge outside mesmerised by the twinkling tree lights.

‘Let her in,’ you urge, your voice wrapped in the sound of carols from the TV, ‘she’ll freeze out there.’

I open the window, she slinks through, settles herself by the fire, her body forming a perfect doughnut, her purr soft.

Christmas morning. The little cat greets me with a cheery meow. ‘Turkey later,’ I tell her as she rubs about my legs. I find myself smiling.

‘Company on Christmas Day,’ I say out loud, ‘the perfect present.’ I miss you so much.

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#FLASHFICTION101 NOVEMBER 2020 SHORTLISTED ENTRY

November's #FlashFiction101 shortlist is made up of 23 stories, with one story being released daily as an advent calendar of festive flash fiction. Look out for a new story every day with the winning entry being announced on the 24th December 2021.

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