The standoff between Luke and the cat was broken when the feline casually walked over to him and started rubbing its face against his leg. Lukeâs lips twitched involuntarily at the heart-melting sight.
âOh, youâre here,â came a voice from the stairs.
Luke turned to see Gwen approaching. Upon noticing the cat, Gwen clapped his hands lightly in recognition.
âOh, so this is where Monet wandered off to. I was wondering where she had gone.â@@novelbin@@
âIs this cat the one kept here at the estate?â Luke asked.
âYes, her name is Monet. She doesnât usually come up to the second floor, but it seems she noticed we have a guest.â
Monet continued to nuzzle against Luke, clearly enamored with him. Luke recalled Theo mentioning the cat on several occasions and assumed this must be the same one.
âShe was brought here by the Duchess. Unfortunately, due to certain circumstances, the Duchess couldnât take Monet with her to the south, so Iâve been looking after her.â
Luke nodded, crouching down to carefully pick up Monet. The cat tensed momentarily but then relaxed, settling comfortably in his arms.
âSheâs usually wary of people and doesnât take to them easily, but she seems to like you,â Gwen remarked with a soft laugh, watching as Monet nestled herself securely in Lukeâs embrace.