Shady and Slappy

     Of all the stray cats I have fed, only two cats remain.  I have my theory on what has happened to all of those cats.  But I am left to only speculate whether or not I am right. 
     I continue to put out cat food hoping to some day see cats return.  Until more cats return, there is Shady (a female) and Slappy (a male) there every morning, noon, and night.  They come to be fed.
     Shady, who regularly goes into heat, apparently is unable to have kittens.  Nevertheless, it doesn't prevent Slappy's interest.  Sometimes there are a few other male cats who come following Shady's every move, but they disappear as soon as the "heat" cycle is over.
     Slappy maintains his distance and allows no human hand to touch him.  Shady is completely opposite.  I touch and rub her daily.  She comes for the food and loves the attention I give her.  I am not the only house giving food to her.  Across the street she runs to a neighbor's house.  The neighbor throws food to her.  But his hands have yet to touch her.  The neighbor laughs and says, "She is playing us both!"
     Yeah, I love this black short-haired cat that I call Shady.  I have no idea where she came from, but I am glad she came.  I often give her treats from a bag.  I begin to pour.  I lean down low so the treats won't go everywhere.  Shady lets me know in no uncertain terms that what I plan to give her is not enough.  She reaches out a paw giving a slap that forces more treats to spill.  I laugh as perhaps I misnamed the two cats.  Perhaps she should be called Slappy and the male should be called Shady.  Either way, the two cats' behavior leaves me with a feeling of happiness.  I love you, Shady.  And yes, I love you too Slappy.