#dearmaria

Dear Maria,

I don't understand. Why are there so many big hairless cats here? There are so many big hairless cats here. This place has just been for you, me, and occasionally (when I allow it) Other Big Cat to hang around in. But never this many. Never.

And they all keep trying to pet me! I don't mind one or two, but the whole room seems to just want to hold me and pass me around and pet me and make kissy faces. Blech. Too overwhelming. I'm going to hide where no one can get me: right under the middle of the couch.

And how are you so calm, by the way? We've been invaded, the big hairless cats gave you food that is far too sweet (but made with real buttercream, mmm...) that was on fire, sang some haunting melody way out of tune (that hurt my ears, and I know it did yours, too. Were those tears of pain?) and now you all are laughing and talking and having fun loudly around me!!

You're even pulling me out to "come say 'hi'"?? I did my time. I was social! How dare you pass me around like a common chihuahua or bag of popcorn. The nerve.

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Well... I guess this party isn't all too bad. You do look really happy, and I haven't felt you this relaxed in a long while. As the night grows longer and your guests dwindle down to the last few you love the most, I'll just curl up on your lap and purr as you pet me. This is nice. This is pure.

Happy Birthday, my Dear Maria

P.S. All your friends brought their gifts and food in plastic bags. We're keeping those plastic bags, right?