“Three people have told him he is a tiger because of the stripes, and he…

“Three people have told him he is a tiger because of the stripes, and he believes them, though he has never seen one.” The tabby stands on the stone curb while the tan dog rests its chin heavily across his shoulders. Three people have told him he is a tiger because of the stripes, and he believes them, though he has never seen one. He keeps a dry beetle shell in his mouth for the journey. The dog does not move, so the cat assumes this is part of the route. He adjusts his footing on the uneven pavement, bearing the weight without complaint, and looks down the road toward the market. He sets out again the next morning.