I Wanted a Dog
a micro fiction
The cat wouldn’t die.
My daughter found him curled on a tree branch, staring down lazily. Already fully grown, sleek, one black sock, one white mitten.
Didn’t smell. Didn’t misbehave. Didn’t whine.
We kept him inside. Every evening, he turned up on the stoop, an unflinching silhouette. I would find dead animals around the neighborhood: bigger cats, a coyote, birds of prey. His pristine litter box hid a collection of collars.
#
I don’t think I did wrong. It was to save my sanity.
My daughter honored the years we had him: 1956–1974. Eighteen fucking years.
He would have lived forever.
Photographer: moominsean
* * *
Thank you for reading! This is part of a micro fiction series where I take a photo and write a story inspired by it. Each story is 100 words.
If you enjoyed, you might like this one:
About the Creator
Mackenzie Davis
“When you are describing a shape, or sound, or tint, don’t state the matter plainly, but put it in a hint. And learn to look at all things with a sort of mental squint.” Lewis Carroll
Find me elsewhere.
Copyright Mackenzie Davis.
Reader insights
Outstanding
Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!
Top insights
Compelling and original writing
Creative use of language & vocab
Easy to read and follow
Well-structured & engaging content
Excellent storytelling
Original narrative & well developed characters
Expert insights and opinions
Arguments were carefully researched and presented
Eye opening
Niche topic & fresh perspectives
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
Masterful proofreading
Zero grammar & spelling mistakes
On-point and relevant
Writing reflected the title & theme
Keep reading
More stories from Mackenzie Davis and writers in Fiction and other communities.
Comments (4)
It's like a micro portion of Edgar Poe :-) Cruel! Poisoned?
Lol, he was one heck of a cat!
That first line is so clever and provocative, you HAVE to read the rest. Amazing stuff, really - wish I could write like you!
I love your project and this piece! Chilling, satisfying, with a touch of mystery.