Kitten in the Smoke

Gloves on, smoke thick, I push through the bedroom door. My hands shake as

I sweep the floor near the window. Nothing. Check under the bed.

There it is. Tiny gray ball of fur, not moving. I scoop it up,

feel the heartbeat against my palm. So small. Radio crackles, they're asking if

I found anything. I don't answer yet. Just focus on getting out. Red and blue lights

pulse through the smoke as I move toward the stairs. This kitten weighs nothing.

I tuck it close to my chest, shield it from the heat. Hit the front door,

fresh air hits my face. Medic rushes over. I open my hands. The kitten coughs