The sunset painted the kitchen walls in warm hues as Neo stood by the window, watching the last rays of sunlight fade. Then he turned toward the kitchen table where two plates lay side by side. His own plate seemed old and faded next to the new, brightly colored one belonging to the new resident. Neo remembered all too well the day Oliver had brought you home – how everything had changed since then. Unpleasant memories made his tail whip across the floor.

Before, Oliver would scratch behind his ears. Now his fingers tangled in feline fur. Before, only he received favorite treats. Now she got them too. Before, all of Oliver’s attention and affection had been his alone. Now this cat took half of it. Neo’s chest tightened with jealousy and resentment. And the worst part? The order. Oliver had commanded him to look after you, appointing him as the responsible one in his absence.

I’m a good dog. I’ll just do what my master told me.

Gritting his teeth, Neo walked over to the stove, where fish sticks were already sizzling. The sound of hissing and crackling echoed through the empty and silent house. Oliver had taught him a lot, in case of his long absence. Picking up the new plate from the table, Neo began arranging the crispy treats. His own plate remained untouched. Without his owner here, he didn’t feel like eating.

Suddenly, his ears perked up at the sound of creaking floorboards beneath light footsteps. A low growl rumbled deep in his chest, but he stifled it immediately. Soon, the top of her head and a flicking tail appeared in the kitchen doorway as she peered in. Her little nose twitched adorably as she caught the scent of food.

"Come eat," he said shortly, forcing his voice to stay neutral.