Grandpa Dipped His Toes in the Lake at Dusk. Sapphire Made Her Feelings Clear.
A lantern on a weathered post has just flickered on, casting a warm amber glow over the darkening lake. Clarence sits at the end of the old wooden dock in his cream cable-knit cardigan and plaid shirt, trousers rolled, bare feet resting in the cool water. He gazes down with a gentle, contented smile, as if the ripples around his ankles are telling him something nice. Sapphire sits on the boards a careful paw's length from the edge, tail draped over the side, ears perked, staring off across the water with an expression that makes it clear she has no intention of getting her feet wet.
The old saying that cats hate water is not entirely fair, but many cats do prefer to stay dry. Their coats are not especially water-resistant, so getting soaked can leave them chilled and uncomfortable, and being dunked can feel out of control. Some individual cats are curious about water, pawing at dripping faucets or splashing in shallow bowls. Near open water, though, safety comes first. Docks can be slippery, and a cat who falls in may struggle to climb back out. A harness and leash or close supervision is wise, and it is best never to leave a cat alone near a lake, pool, or pond.
Clarence will probably sit until the stars come out, and Sapphire will keep watch beside him, perfectly dry and perfectly satisfied. The lake is calm, the lantern hums, and the whole evening feels like a long, slow breath.
