It was a bright afternoon when Lala skipped happily down the village pathway, humming her favorite tune. She had just finished feeding Grandma’s chickens and ducks, and her shoes were still a little dusty from the barn. As she rounded the corner by the big mango tree, she suddenly froze.
Standing just a few steps away was a girl with a familiar smile—one she had only seen in photos. And beside her, perched proudly on a wooden fence, was a fluffy white cat with striking blue eyes.
“Lala?” the girl called softly, her voice filled with excitement.
Lala blinked. “Sister… Hana?” she whispered, hardly believing her own eyes.
Hana rushed forward and wrapped Lala in a warm hug. “Surprise! I came to visit! And look who I brought!” She pointed to the cat, who flicked his tail and gave a soft “meow.”
“That’s Siba!” Lala exclaimed. She had heard so many stories about the clever cat who could open doors and steal fish from the market when no one was looking.
Siba, as if understanding his introduction, strutted toward Lala and rubbed his head against her leg. Lala giggled and gently scratched behind his ears. “He’s so soft!”
Hana smiled. “He likes you already.”
Grandma appeared from the house, laughing joyfully at the reunion. “I knew this would be the best surprise for our little Lala!”
The afternoon became a celebration. Lala and Hana chased Siba around the yard, fed him treats, and even made a cozy bed for him under the shade of the banana tree. Siba explored every corner of the yard, pouncing on fallen leaves and swishing his tail with pride.
Lala couldn’t stop smiling. She had always dreamed of having her sister close and a playful cat to share her days. Now, both were right here beside her.
As the sun began to set and fireflies danced in the air, Lala hugged Hana tightly. “Promise you’ll stay for a long time?” she asked.
Hana kissed her forehead. “As long as I can—and Siba too.”
Lala looked at her sister and the happy cat curled beside them.
Today, her heart felt fuller than ever.
