Ginger the cat is the centerpiece of a lucrative entertainment and merchandising empire. A blue Christmas seems certain when his owner Katherine passes away right before Thanksgiving.<br><br>Katherine’s will appoints her loving and loyal groundskeeper Baily as executor, leaving estranged grandson Del livid. Since Del wasn’t around, it’s stipulated he must spend thirty days under the same roof as Ginger and Baily to get to know the cat as a loving companion, not just a commodity, in order to share in any inheritance.<br><br>As the men bond over the weeks leading into Christmas, Baily is unaware Scrooge-like Del is sneaking around, searching out cash and other valuables. Will they be able to make nice once Baily discovers Del’s naughtiness? Which list does Ginger end up on? And what will Katherine’s last gift to each man mean to their future?

Ginger Bread

“Let’s see what else we have.” Del picked up a reddish brown envelope, a thick one with gussets. Not only could I count, I also knew colors, and my vocabulary was quite good for a seven-year-old. People underestimate cats. It shall be the ruination of their species someday. “Money,” Del said, undoing a string that was wrapped around a button of sorts in the center. “Wanna get the string?”


String I could play with, diamond earrings no. Meh. I yawned, suddenly not in the mood.


“There are three. Lots and lots of money.” When Del laid the packets at his hip, I did take a swipe, pulling one envelope closer. I thought money would be heavier. When he tried to get it back, “Man, you got a good grip and some muscle, there,” I pulled it closer to me. “Okay. You can have it for now. Fortunately, cats don’t really care about monetary riches.”


I wonder if that’s all you care about.


Chapter 26