Ella

Bear’s ears perked at the sound of Ella’s name. He heard the Kolkoskis talking, but the vacuum cleaner was on in the living room, and he couldn’t hear through the noise.

Ella… thought Bear, I wish I could go visit her, but I’m a housecat now. Samson’s right, I can’t keep escaping. Mrs. K didn’t like cleaning up the mess I made the last time I got out. It’s a good thing Rita caused a diversion. She’s a good raccoon. I wish I knew what she’s trying to tell me, but I just can’t hear her the way I used to. I can’t hear anyone like I used to.

Yawning Bear concluded, “Maybe Samson’s right, I’m not a kitten anymore.”