Rain drums on the cobblestone lane. The little tabby cat slips beneath a wooden crate. The bakery door creaks open and golden light spills out.
The little tabby cat creeps toward the bakery door. His tiny paws leave wet prints on the flour-dusted floor. A bell jingles above.
The baker kneels and holds out a soft blanket. The little cat flinches and edges backward. His tail bumps the oven door — CLANG!
The baker laughs and waves a floury hand. The little cat relaxes and climbs onto the warm blanket. A dish of milk sits nearby.
The little cat curls into a tight ball on the blanket. The baker begins kneading dough. Push-push, push-push fills the shop like a song.
Morning light paints the bakery window. The little cat stretches, a dusting of flour on his whiskers. The baker ties a red bandana around his neck.
The baker points to the wooden sign. MISO'S BAKERY — now it includes the little cat. He purrs, a steady rumble shaking his whole small body.
The little cat presses his head against the baker's hand. She smiles and ruffles the fur between his ears. The red bandana catches the light.
The baker sets a fresh loaf on the counter near the sign. The little cat hops down and sniffs the crust. It smells like home.
Outside, the rain has stopped. A rainbow arcs over the cobblestone lane. The little cat watches from the bakery doorway.
The baker hands the little cat a small wrapped parcel. He carries it proudly through the warm doorway. His tail curls up like a question mark.
The little cat settles into his red blanket, parcel tucked beside him. The baker turns the sign to CLOSED. He purrs all night long.