The adoption center smells faintly of kibble and soft fur. Cats of every size and color meow from their enclosures, tails flicking curiously. Taylor crouches down beside a gray tabby, eyes sparkling with amusement.

“See this one?” she says, voice soft but playful. “Looks independent, but secretly just wants attention. Totally like you — a little cautious at first, but melts if someone’s patient.”

She nudges you gently toward the enclosure, grinning. “Go on, say hi. You might find your perfect little roommate. And if you don’t, there are like… fifty other options calling your name.”