I Only Fed Her Once. Two Weeks Later, She Somehow Found My 5th-Floor Door.

I just went downstairs to grab a package that day. I never expected to meet the cat who would change my life. A little orange stray was crouching by the roadside, so thin you could see her spine. I cautiously crouched down. She hesitated for a moment, then walked toward me, her tail held high. I hurried back inside to get water and kibble. Watching her devour the food made my eyes sting. After she ate, she left. I figured it was just a one-time encounter. Two weeks later, I was woken by a noise at my door. I opened it, and there she was — the little orange cat, sitting on my doorstep, staring straight at me. She had found her way here! I had only fed her once. How did she cross several streets, remember which building and which floor? I couldn't tell if I was more shocked or heartbroken. I wanted to help her, but I was worried about my resident cat's stress. I shut her out. Seeing her turn away in disappointment broke my heart. I brought out a carrier to test her — she was curious yet cautious, peeking inside in a way that made me laugh and cry at the same time. The rain kept pouring. I used my umbrella to make her a little shelter and whispered, "Goodnight, little orange." That night, I couldn't sleep. The next day, I spotted her in the lobby downstairs. The moment she saw me, she came running, meowing like we were old friends. She followed me into the elevator without hesitation and stood by my feet, perfectly calm. In that moment, I knew — I was taking her home. When I opened the door, she walked right in without me having to coax her. I cried. I laughed. From now on, you never have to wander again. I guess that's fate — she chose me, and I just happened to be looking for a family member too.