Chaos Kittens: A Paw-some Mystery
A Willowbrook Story
Hello, magical reader. This is a free short story for subscribers of Nyx Halliwell’s Cozy Corner and can be enjoyed over a cup of your favorite brew or before snuggling down to sleep. ☕️💜
I’ve added an audio recording of the story (read by me!) at the end for my paid subscribers. Enjoy!
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Willowbrook, a picturesque town nestled between rolling hills and lush forests, exudes an enchanting charm with its cobblestone streets and cozy cottages. This welcoming community is a place where the magic of everyday life flourishes.
In the heart of Willowbrook, the Enchanted Cat Cafe was bustling with activity as Ember and Oliver, along with their feline friend Clover, teamed up with Mrs. Grayson to organize a fundraising event for the Willowbrook animal rescue.
Mrs. Grayson, the enigmatic owner of the Enchanted Emporium, had generously donated a set of kitten statues to be auctioned off, with all proceeds going to support the rescue’s furry residents.
The anticipation was palpable as the event got underway. Patrons eagerly bid on the adorable statues and other cat—and dog-themed items.
“Going once, going twice…” Brice, the coffee shop owner and auctioneer for the event, knocked a wooden gavel with a dog’s face on the counter. “Sold! The Chaos Kittens go to Mr. and Mrs. Buxley for $100.”
Everyone applauded, but just as the couple accepted the black, white, and gray statues, the kittens came to life.
As the crowd gasped, the three kittens frolicked about the cafe. Ember's eyes widened in disbelief as she watched them scamper across tables, knocking over cups and saucers with their playful antics. "What in the world...?" She motioned to Oliver to help her contain the chaos.
Oliver, equally perplexed, lunged for the closest one, who expertly dodged out of his grip and ran behind the counter. "I thought they were normal porcelain statues! How did they come to life?"
Mrs. Grayson, ever calm and collected, winked at Clover. “I believe I know how to catch them and set things right."
Clover seemed to wink back. Meowing loudly, she got the kittens’ attention. The three troublemakers seemed fascinated with Clover, who began mothering them and cleaning their fur.
“Good job, Clover,” Mrs. Grayson said. She pulled out a few of her famous catnip cookies and the four munched down on them.
“How did the statues become enchanted?" Ember asked her.
Mrs. Grayson gave a sheepish smile. “A magical mishap, possibly? They were crafted by a dear friend of mine—a talented wizard with a penchant for mischief. It seems he imbued the statues with a bit of his own magic, intending to bring joy to those who crossed their path."
Oliver chuckled. "And now they've lived up to their name, causing chaos instead."
Mrs. Grayson patted Clover on the head as she meowed for another treat. "Well, it seems they simply needed a guiding paw to show them the way. And who better than Clover, with her innate charm and gentle spirit?"
“We’d still love to take them home,” Mrs. Buxley said, watching the kittens begin to playfully attack each other, rolling over and over. “Is that okay?”
“You’re sure?” Ember asked.
Mr. Buxley nodded, squeezing his wife’s arm. “We could use a little excitement and adventure in our house now that we’re empty nesters. Would it be okay if Clover came over for an hour or so to help them settle in?”
“You can come, too,” Mrs. Buxley added. “We’d love to have you for dinner, in fact.”
Oliver patted his stomach. “I’m always up for a good meal.”
Brice gave the Buxleys a basket to carry the kittens home in, and Mrs. Grayson gave them a jar of her catnip cookies as a bonus. Clover hopped into the basket as if she owned it, purring when the kittens nestled down with her.
As the event drew to a close, Ember and Oliver followed the new family home, their hearts full of gratitude for the Buxleys and everyone else who helped raise funds for the rescue and made the event magical.
***
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