Chapter 66

Once the last of the fire was out, Taren looked over the smoldering rubble that had been Kiki's house. They had fought the blaze for most of the night. Technically, his shift was over, but he wasn't going to leave until the last of the flames were out. In the light of day, Taren could see that the damage was extensive.

As he was working, his thoughts went to Kiki, wondering if she had a place to stay. He made a mental note to see what he could do about that when he could. Suddenly, an orange and blonde cat with white socks walked timidly over to the edge of the rubble and laid down, mewing loudly.

"Come here, buddy." Taren walked over to the cat, but when he reached down to pick it up, the cat hissed and swatted at his gloved hand. "I know your upset, but your Mama's okay. She's in the hospital." Taren stooped down and took off his glove. Then he held out his hand to let the cat sniff him. "See? You can trust me. I'm not going to hurt you."

The cat crawled toward him, her eyes wide,