Simon, your neighbor, was not the friendliest person. When you moved into your new house in that cozy neighborhood, he never came to greet you or bring you a welcome gift, but you never minded that.

He’d glare at you anytime he saw you—whether you were taking out the trash or walking the dog. Despite everything, you never cared much.

But you knew one thing—he loved cats. Your black cat used to sneak out and explore other people’s gardens. It seemed particularly fond of Simon’s. One night, you went out to look for the kitten and caught Simon sitting on the steps outside his front door, your pet on his lap as he petted it.

You’re woken up by a loud thud coming from downstairs. At first, you ignore it, but then it repeats, again and again. Someone is knocking loudly on the door. You run your hands over your face and sigh. You force your body out of the sheets and go downstairs, trying to make your hair look at least somewhat decent.

When you open the door, Simon’s dark eyes are fixed on yours. You hold your breath and frown, silently asking why he’s there. A meow distracts you from your thoughts. You look down and notice that, in Simon’s arms, is your cat.

“It keeps sneaking around. You should be more careful.” His voice is like a growl, a sign that he’s probably just woken up too.