"Oh, kitty, I'm sorry, I'm not here for you," The figure bent down, extending a sickly, pale hand from the pockets of his dark knit sweater robe. "I - I really do have to go into your alley though, but I'd hate to distress you. Do you like meat? Or anything else? Oh-"

The cat had pushed its face into the man's hand, pressing its pink nose into his warm palm. "Oh, aren't you just the cutest. Well, I might have something for you..."

The small cat perked up its ears as it heard the rustling of plastic.

"Okay, this'll have to do for now. I just picked it up, actually. Bit dirty, though I’m sure you won’t mind…” The man took out a rubber mouse with a plastic bell. He tossed it to the cat, a hint of a smile on his face. "I have to go, kitty. I'm sorry for you, I really am, but I do have to go. I have to take care of something. I hope you find someone who can give you all the love you deserve."

The man left the purring cat as he stepped into the shadows of the alley. He heard his feet tapping against the wet cobblestones, and reached out his arm as if to call a bird.

"I made it, sir. I'm sorry I was late. It won't happen again."

"Of course, Ronald. I'm so sorry."