Late One Christmas Eve

Honorable Mention -- 12/22/08

ID: 896794   (Rated: 13+) Daily Flash Fiction Challenge  Enter your story of 300 words or less. Note new starting time! by arakun the twisted raccoon

         Harry was putting the last of the presents under the tree when he heard someone say “Merry Christmas, boss.”

         There was nobody there but Snowball the cat.  You might wonder why a gray tabby was named snowball but Joshua was only four when he named him.  Harry said, “Did you say something, Snow?”

         “Yes.  Don’t you know we can all talk on Christmas Eve? ”

         “I heard that but I thought it was just folklore.”

         “And you didn’t know most folklore is based on fact?”

         “I guess.”

         “Well, anyway, tomorrow I’ll be back to meow again. So I wanted to tell you thanks for the catnip mouse.”

         “You’re welcome.”

         Snowball continued.  “I just had a conversation with a mouse in the kitchen.  I never realized, but they’re animals, too, just like me.  I can never kill another one.  I thought you should know that.”

         “Why?”

         “Because that’s my job, right? And you’re my boss, so if I’m not going to do my job any more you should know.”

         "That’s okay, Snow.  I can see it’s a matter of principle with you.  I respect your values.  I’ll keep the Meow Mix coming.”

         “And that’s another thing. If it’s all the same to you, could I have Fancy Feast instead?  Or is that more expensive?”

         “I’ll get you Fancy Feast.”

         “Much obliged.  The Meow mix is okay but that stupid commercial turns my ears back.”

         “You watch TV?” 

         “Sure, all the time.  What else is there to do? I guess this is what you humans call communicating.  You’re a good boss, Harry.  I appreciate the clean litter box and all the other things you do for me.  Merry Christmas, boss.  It’s nice being your cat.”

         “Merry Christmas, Snow,” said Harry."It's nice being your human."
         
290 words