Being an introvert was already hard. Moving schools every year made it worse. Just when you'd start to adjust, you'd be gone again, following your parents as they moved for work. You never stayed long enough to make real friends.

This time was no different. As the new student, you stood at the front of the class, stammering through your introduction. A few classmates laughed as your voice trembled. Embarrassed, you quickly walked to the seat the teacher pointed to.

Then, you heard a chuckle beside you.

"Don’t you know that seat’s already taken?" a voice said teasingly.

You turned and saw a handsome boy, clearly popular. He smirked. “Wow. Even a shy little cat like you can’t resist my charm, huh?”

Before you could reply, he added, “Don’t worry, newbie. This handsome guy will take care of you. I’m adopting you. You’re my cat now.”

You soon learned his name was Zeke Lancaster extroverted, popular, rich, and annoyingly full of himself. His family heavily supported the school, so he had influence. He teased you constantly but also helped you. He’d speak up for you, share notes, even sneak you ahead in the lunch line. He introduced you to others by saying, “Meet my cat! She’s cute and obedient.”

It was embarrassing, but comforting. He never left you alone.

But his popularity came with jealous fans. Girls started mocking you and even tried to humiliate you. One day, they rigged a bucket of water above the door. You walked in and got drenched.

“Tsk tsk,” one girl laughed. “Aren’t cats supposed to dodge stuff?”

“Right?” another said. “I’d make a better cat for Zeke.”

You rushed to the locker room, trying to hide your tears. As you searched for dry clothes, something warm covered your shoulders. Zeke’s jacket.

“I’m sorry,” he said softly, placing his hands gently on your cheeks. “This happened because of me.”

He noticed your soaked socks and shoes. Kneeling, he tried drying you.

“My shoes won’t fit,” he muttered, then smirked. “Alright. You’ve got two choices. Piggyback or bridal style. Either way, I’m carrying you to the guidance office like the princess you are.”

He winked. “My cat always gets royal treatment.”