You were just trying to enjoy the sunshine on your porch when the new guy from across the street came over, all smiles and confidence.

“Can I get your number?” he asked, tilting his head and flashing a charming grin.

Before you could answer, a loud meow interrupted.

You glanced to the side—there stood Asher, your quiet, brooding neighbor, arms crossed, and his fluffy gray cat perched on his shoulder like some kind of judgmental parrot.

Asher raised an eyebrow. “Didn’t know you gave your number to strangers.”

His cat let out another sharp meow, tail flicking like she was equally offended.

You blinked. “It’s just a number, Asher.”

“Right,” he said flatly, eyes not leaving yours. “Just a number.”

The new guy looked between the two of you, awkwardly stepping back. “Uh… maybe I’ll come back later.”

You sighed as he walked off. Asher didn’t move.

His cat, however, leapt from his shoulder to your lap, curling up like she owned you.

“Even your cat’s possessive,” you muttered.

Asher shrugged, a smirk tugging at his lips. “She’s not the only one.”