Chapter 23

Catherine's pov

I stood outside Erika's door, my hand hovering just above the handle as I heard the sound of water running from the shower. It was getting late, and I wanted to say goodnight, to offer her the warmth and comfort I knew she needed after such an emotionally draining day. But just as I was about to knock, the sound of muffled voices stopped me in my tracks.

I leaned in closer, my heart sinking as I recognized the voice on the other end of the line—it was Erika's mother. The tone was unmistakable, sharp and cold, dripping with disdain. My stomach twisted as I heard Erika's shaky voice, trying to defend herself, to seek even a shred of validation from a woman who seemed incapable of giving it.

"...not living up to your potential... not the daughter you're supposed to be..."

I held my breath, feeling the pain in Erika's voice, the desperate attempt to explain, to justify, to make her mother understand. But instead of comfort, there was only more cruelty. The words were cutting, deliberate, meant to wound.

I gripped the door handle tightly, every instinct in my body screaming to go in, to wrap Erika in my arms and tell her that none of this was true, that she was loved and valued just as she was. But I hesitated, my heart breaking as I realized that if I walked in now, Erika might think I had been eavesdropping. The last thing I wanted was for her to feel like her privacy had been invaded, especially after such a vulnerable conversation.

So instead, I forced myself to step back, my heart heavy with the knowledge of what I had just heard. I could feel the weight of Erika's pain, and it crushed me to know that I had to walk away, if only for now. I made my way to my own room, my mind racing with thoughts of how to protect her, how to give her the love and security she so desperately needed.

Once inside my room, I paced for a moment, trying to calm the storm of emotions raging inside me. The conversation I had overheard replayed in my mind, each hurtful word from Erika's mother piercing my heart. She had suffered so much, and I was determined to ensure that she would never feel that kind of pain again.

I grabbed my phone, my fingers trembling slightly as I scrolled through my contacts until I found the number I was looking for; my mother's. With a deep breath, I dialed, knowing this was a call I had to make.

The phone rang twice before a familiar voice answered on the other end. "Catherine, it's been so long. It's late. Is everything okay?"

"No, it's not," I replied, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside me. "I need to file the paperwork."

"Paperwork for what?" My mother's concerned voice questioned, "What is this sudden urgency?"

"I have a little girl. She's great, she's still 17 and has a horrible mother, I need her to know she's loved and cared for."

"So you don't visit, call, or even text for years, and now you're telling me you have a little girl?" She passively chuckled.

"Mom, I know, I should have stayed more in touch, but you know what Dad said." I replied as vivid flashbacks struck me. I would have never spoken to either of them again if it wasn't for the urgency of the situation.

There was a brief pause on the other end, followed by a soft sigh. "I understand. We can start the process first thing tomorrow. Are you sure this is what you want?"

"More than anything," I said without hesitation.

"I'll help under one condition." She stated.

"And what's that?" I asked, anticipating her response.

"I want you to come over for Thanksgiving. I want to meet my soon to be granddaughter." My mother expressed.

My desperation caused me to answer immediately. Despite my distaste for the condition, this isn't for me it's for Erika. Plus she'll love California. I could take her to the beach, amusement parks, and food spots.

"Okay." I sighed.

I could practically hear her smile through the phone, "I'll take care of everything."

"Thank you," I whispered, feeling a wave of relief wash over me.

As I hung up the phone, I sat on the edge of my bed, my thoughts still with Erika. I wanted so badly to comfort her, to tell her that everything would be okay, that I was going to make sure of it. But for now, all I could do was wait until morning, when I could put my plan into motion.

I knew that adopting Erika was a big step, one that would change both of our lives. But after hearing the way her mother had treated her, I knew it was the right thing to do. She needed a family, someone who would love her unconditionally, and I was determined to be that person.

As I lay down to sleep, my thoughts lingered on Erika, hoping that somehow, she would feel the love and support that was waiting for her, just on the other side of that door.

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The morning light filtered through the curtains as I moved about the kitchen, the scent of freshly brewed coffee filling the air. I wanted everything to be perfect this morning, to start the day on a positive note after the difficult night Erika had. I carefully plated the eggs, bacon, and toast, setting the table with a bit more care than usual.

As I placed the last cup on the table, I heard the soft sound of footsteps approaching. I turned to see Erika walking into the dining room, her eyes red and puffy from crying. My heart ached at the sight, and I forced a gentle smile to my face.

"Good morning, love," I said softly, trying to keep my voice light. "I made bacon and eggs."

Erika attempted a small smile, but it didn't reach her eyes. "Morning," she mumbled, sliding into her seat at the table.

I sat down across from her, watching as she picked up her fork and began to poke at her food without much enthusiasm. It was clear something was wrong, but I knew I had to approach this delicately.

"Did you sleep okay?" I asked, keeping my tone casual, even though I already knew the answer.

She shrugged, not meeting my gaze. "Yeah, I guess."

I studied her for a moment, my concern growing. "You know you can talk to me about anything, right? I'm here for you honey."

She nodded, but still didn't look up. I could see her struggling, trying to hold it all in, but the silence between us only seemed to make it harder for her.

"Erika," I said gently, reaching across the table to place a hand over hers. "I can see something's bothering you. You don't have to pretend everything's okay if it's not."

She hesitated, her fork stilling in her hand. For a moment, I thought she might shut me out, but then she sighed heavily, her shoulders slumping as if the weight of the world was on them.

"I talked to my mom last night," she finally admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

I felt a pang of sadness for her, remembering the hurtful words I had overheard. "And how did that go?" I asked, keeping my tone neutral.

Erika's eyes filled with tears, and she blinked rapidly, trying to keep them from falling. "It was awful. She... she just said all these horrible things, like I'm not good enough and I'm a disappointment." Her voice cracked, and she looked down at her plate, ashamed.

"Oh, lovebug," I said softly, squeezing her hand. "I'm so sorry she said those things to you. But you know none of that is true, right? You are so much more than what she sees."

She shook her head, tears finally spilling down her cheeks. "It's just... I try so hard, but it's never enough for her. I just wanted her to be proud of me, but no matter what I do, it's like she can't stand the sight of me."

My heart broke for her, and I felt a surge of protectiveness rise within me. I wanted to tell her that I had heard everything, that I was already taking steps to make sure she would never have to face that kind of cruelty again, but I knew I couldn't reveal that just yet.

Instead, I stood up and walked around the table to her side, pulling her into a tight embrace. "You are enough, sweetheart. You are more than enough. And you have so many people who care about you, who see how amazing you are. I'm proud of you, and I always will be."

Erika clung to me, her small frame trembling as she cried against my shoulder. I held her close, rubbing soothing circles on her back, wishing I could take away all the pain she was feeling.

After a few minutes, she pulled back, wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. "I'm sorry," she sniffled. "I didn't mean to break down like that."

"There's nothing to apologize for," I assured her. "You don't have to hold it all in, not with me. I'm here for you, no matter what."

She nodded, taking a shaky breath as she tried to compose herself. "Thank you, Cat. I... I really needed that."

I smiled warmly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "You're welcome, love. Now, how about we finish breakfast? You have a big day ahead of you, and you'll need your strength."

Erika managed a small smile and nodded. "Yeah, okay."

We finished breakfast together, the mood a little lighter now that she had let some of her feelings out. As she got ready for school, I couldn't help but worry about her, hoping that the day would bring her some peace and maybe even a bit of happiness.

When she finally came downstairs with her bag slung over her shoulder, I was waiting by the door. "Ready to go?" I asked, trying to keep things upbeat.

"Yeah," she replied, though her smile was still a bit forced, "I want a cat." Erika blurted out of nowhere.

"You already have a Cat." I playfully batted my eyelashes.

She rolled her eyes, "You know what I mean. Can I get one?" She pleaded. Her puppy dog eyes came out once more. How could I ever say no to her? Especially after this morning.

"Well monkey I don't know, it's a lot of responsibility." I responded. I didn't mind animals, but I never imagined having one of my own.

"I'm responsible." Erika placed a proud smile on her face.

"Oh love, I know you are, we'll see." I said as I kissed the top of her head.

She nodded and I opened the door for her, watching as she walked out. Before I followed her, I took a deep breath, resolving to do everything in my power to make sure she never felt this way again. The paperwork to adopt her was already in motion, and soon, she would have a home where she was loved unconditionally.

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After work, I decided to take a detour to the local toy store. As I walked through the aisles, my eyes scanned the shelves filled with plush animals, games, and dolls. I wanted to find something that felt right, something that Erika would immediately connect with.

Then, I saw it: a soft, cuddly stuffed monkey with large, bright eyes and a slightly mischievous grin. It reminded me of Erika—cute, a bit quirky, and full of personality. I could already picture her hugging it tightly, her face lighting up with that smile I loved so much. I picked up the monkey and ran my fingers through its soft fur, already imagining the joy it would bring her. It felt like the perfect gift, something to hold onto during those moments when she needed a little extra comfort.

As I made my way to the checkout counter, a thought crossed my mind. I had been planning to ask Erika if she would let me adopt her today. This little monkey could be the perfect way to broach the subject.

With the monkey carefully tucked into a shopping bag, I left the toy store, feeling a little lighter. But there was still something nagging at me, a feeling that there was more I could do. I was driving home, lost in thought, when I passed by the animal shelter. On a whim, I decided to pull in.

As I entered the shelter, the familiar sounds of barking dogs and meowing cats greeted me. I smiled at the staff members who recognized me from previous visits.

"Just looking today?" one of the volunteers asked with a friendly smile.

"Maybe," I replied, not entirely sure what I was there for. "I was wondering if you had any kittens?"

The volunteer's face lit up. "Actually, we just got a new litter in. Let me show you."

I followed her to the back of the shelter, where a small room was filled with soft blankets and tiny kittens playing or sleeping in cozy piles. As soon as I stepped inside, my eyes were drawn to a small gray kitten with bright blue eyes. She was sitting quietly in a corner, watching the other kittens with a calm, observant gaze. There was something about her that immediately tugged at my heart.

"That one," I said softly, pointing to the gray kitten. "Can I hold her?"

The volunteer carefully scooped up the kitten and placed her in my arms. She was so tiny and delicate, and as soon as she settled into my embrace, she began to purr. I could feel the warmth of her little body against mine, and I knew, without a doubt, that this was the kitten meant for Erika.

"She's perfect," I whispered, gently stroking the kitten's soft fur. "I'll adopt her."

The adoption process was quick, and soon enough, I was on my way home with the kitten in a carrier, her soft purring a constant reminder of the joy she would bring to Erika. I couldn't wait to see her reaction when she met her new furry friend.

When I arrived home, I set the carrier down gently on the living room floor and carefully opened the door. The little gray kitten cautiously stepped out, her tiny paws padding across the carpet. She looked up at me with those big blue eyes, and I knew I had made the right decision.

I sat on the couch, the stuffed monkey beside me, and waited for Erika to come home from school. Today she had two classes so I knew I would be home before her.

I was nervous, but also excited. I knew that today could be a turning point for both of us, but I was ready and hoped she was too.

When I heard the front door open, my heart skipped a beat. Erika walked in, looking tired but managing a smile when she saw me. "Hey, Cat, or mommy?" She greeted me, taking off her shoes and placing them by the door.

"Hey, monkey," I replied, my smile widening as I gestured for her to join me on the couch. "Come sit with me. I have something for you."

Erika's curiosity was piqued, and she sat down on my lap, her eyes immediately landing on the stuffed monkey. "What's this?" she asked, reaching out to touch the soft fur.

"It's for you," I said softly, watching as she picked up the monkey and hugged it to her chest. "I thought you might like it. And... I wanted to ask you something important."

Erika looked up at me, her expression a mix of surprise and curiosity. "What is it?"

I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment. "Erika, I've been thinking about this for a while now, and I want you to know that I love you more than anything. I want to be your family, officially. I want to adopt you, if that's something you'd want too."

Her eyes widened in shock, and for a moment, she didn't say anything. Then, tears began to well up in her eyes, and she nodded, a small, trembling smile on her lips. "I would like that."

I pulled her into a tight embrace, tears of my own falling freely now. "You've been my little one in my heart for a long time, Erika. I'm so happy that you want this too."

We held each other for a long moment, the stuffed monkey squished between us, before I finally pulled back. "There's one more thing," I said, a grin spreading across my face. "I have another surprise for you."

Erika looked at me, confused, I lifted her up and put her as I stood up and walked over to the carrier. I gently lifted the gray kitten out and turned to face her, holding the little bundle of fur in my hands.

"I know you told me this morn-" I said, stepping closer to her.

Erika's eyes lit up as she saw the kitten, and she reached out to gently stroke her soft fur. "IT'S A CAT," she yelled, her voice filled with awe.

"Inside voices honey." I lightly scolded with a small laugh.

"Sorry. I'm just so happy." She apologized with the widest smile.

"I know monkey, it's okay. She's all yours," I told her, handing the kitten over.

Erika cradled the kitten in her arms, her face radiant with happiness. "Thank you," she whispered, tears filling her eyes once more. "I don't know how to thank you for everything."

"You are so welcome, but you don't have to thank me," I said softly, sitting down beside her. "I'm just happy to see you happy."

"What's her name?" She asked, her wide eyes matching the kitten in her arms.

I smiled down at her, "I don't know why don't you tell me."

"Oh my god. Tsuki. She's a Tsuki." Erika excitedly told me.

"Oh woah lovebug, Tsuki is perfect." I bent down to pet the newly named Tsuki.

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I held Erika close, the warmth of our new bond wrapping around us like a soft blanket. I could see the happiness in her eyes, but I also knew that she had been through a lot, and I wanted to make sure she felt completely safe and loved tonight. After everything that had happened, she deserved to be pampered and cared for in the gentlest way possible.

"How about we get you ready for bed, sweetheart?" I suggested, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.

Erika nodded, a small, contented smile on her face. She seemed a little hesitant, but I could tell she was starting to embrace the comfort and care I wanted to give her. I led her to her bedroom, the little kitten following us with tiny, curious steps.

Once we were in her room, I went to her dresser and pulled out a soft, pastel-colored onesie. It was one of the outfits I had specially ordered for her.

"Let's get you dressed, love," I said gently, holding up the onesie. "Something nice and snug to keep you warm."

Erika blushed slightly but didn't protest as I helped her out of her clothes. She trusted me, and I could see that she was letting go of some of the tension that had been weighing on her. I gently guided her arms into the onesie, buttoning it up and smoothing the fabric down over her.

"Perfect," I whispered, giving her a reassuring smile. "You look absolutely adorable."

Next, I reached for one of the soft diapers I kept in her drawer. "Lie back for me, sweetheart," I instructed softly, and she did as I asked, her cheeks tinged with a bit of pink.

I carefully diapered her, making sure she was comfortable. There was something so tender and intimate about this moment, and I could see that Erika was starting to relax completely, letting go of the worries that had been plaguing her all day.

Once she was all dressed and diapered, I scooped her up into my arms, holding her close as I settled into the rocking chair by the window. The moonlight streamed in softly, casting a gentle glow over the room. I could feel Erika's body melt into mine, her head resting against my chest as I began to rock us back and forth.

"You're safe, my love," I whispered, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "You're safe, and you're so, so loved."

Erika looked up at me, her eyes wide and trusting. There was a vulnerability there that tugged at my heart, and I knew what she needed next. I adjusted my position slightly, loosening the top of my shirt so I could nurse her. I knew that breastfeeding had always been a source of comfort and connection for us, and tonight, it felt like the perfect way to soothe her completely.

"Come here, monkey," I murmured, guiding her closer. Erika didn't hesitate, her lips latching onto my breast as she began to nurse. I could feel her whole body relax against me, her small hands clutching at my shirt as she fed. There was a peace that settled over both of us, a deep, abiding sense of love and care that filled the room.

I stroked her hair, humming softly as she continued to nurse, her breathing becoming slower and more even as she began to drift off to sleep.

"You're my baby girl, forever and always," I whispered, feeling a deep, protective love swell in my chest. "And I'll always be here to take care of you."

When Erika finally finished nursing, she was almost asleep in my arms. I gently wiped her mouth, making sure she was comfortable before carefully carrying her over to her bed. I laid her down, tucking her in with the stuffed monkey beside her, and kissed her forehead.

"Goodnight, my sweet girl," I whispered, brushing a final kiss across her brow. "I love you more than words can say."

As I watched her settle into a peaceful sleep, the little kitten curled up at her feet, I knew I would do anything to protect her, to give her the love and care she had always deserved. And tomorrow, I would take the next step to make her officially mine.

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i kinda don't like the cover any recs pls lmk! 😝😝😝

anyway where do u want the book to go next?