The sun rose over Felinopolis, illuminating the wooden houses with a warm, golden light. In the small kitchen, George and Olivier prepared for their expedition. George adjusted his backpack and glanced at Lilly, who was standing by the door with Max. The boy tried to hide his tears by pulling his hat further down over his eyes.

- Take care of yourselves. - Lilly said, trying to keep her tone calm, but there was a note of worry in her voice. - And come back before Max figures out how to captain his own ship.

Max glanced at his mother and quietly mumbled, - I don’t know yet whether I’d rather be an explorer.

George knelt down to look Max in the eye.

- Remember, kid, you have to learn how to avoid pirates before you can start exploring new lands.

- And wash the deck. - Olivier added with a smile, throwing his bag over his shoulder.

Max burst out laughing, but he still didn’t let go of his mother’s hand.

Lilly stepped closer, hugged George, then Olivier.

- Come back both. Don't let anything distract you from what's most important."

George nodded.

- I promise.

After a final hug, the men left the house, and Lilly closed the door behind them. She stood in silence for a moment, hearing only the fading footsteps.

Max sat down on the stairs, looking at the door through which George and Olivier had disappeared. The sun was shining through the window, drawing golden patterns on the floor, but he paid no attention to it. Thoughts were swirling in his head.

- It's not fair. - he whispered to himself. - They always make me wait.

He looked up at his mother, who was silently clearing the cups from the table. Her movements were mechanical, as if she wasn't thinking about what she was doing.

- What if something happens to them? - though Maxt , clenching his fists. - What if I'm not there when I'm needed?

He looked towards his room, where he had hidden under his bed a small bag – the kind he always took on trips with his friends. His eyes were shining with determination.

He stood up and took a few steps towards the room, but stopped when he heard Lilly's voice.

- Max? Is everything okay?

He turned around and smiled, although his heart was pounding like crazy.

- Yeah, Mom. I think I'll go out into the yard for a moment.

Lilly looked at him suspiciously, but after a moment she shrugged.

- Just don't go too far, lunch will be ready soon.

Max nodded and disappeared into the room. He reached under the bed, pulling out his bag. It was light – he had only the most necessary things inside: a sandwich, a flashlight, and a small pocket knife that Olivier had given him.

- This is my chance. - he thought, clenching the bag in his hand.

Max carefully opened the front door, looking around. The streets of Felinopolis were quiet, most of the residents had gone to the Port to say goodbye the ship that was leaving for the sea.

He took a few steps, and then a few more, until he was around the corner of the house. He looked towards the kitchen window - Lilly was busy chopping vegetables and hadn't even noticed that he had disappeared.

"Phew..." he breathed a sigh of relief and walked briskly towards the Port.

The wooden streets were familiar to him like the back of his hand. He knew every alley and every nook, which allowed him to avoid meeting neighbors who might report for his mother that Max sneaking out of the house.

When he reached the Port, his heart beat faster. A large ship with a dark hull and white sails was already at the quay. Sailors bustled about, carrying crates and barrels, and the air was filled with shouts and the clatter of boots on planks.

Max hid behind a pile of barrels, watching the commotion. He knew he had to act quickly before the ship sailed away.

- I have to get there - he thought, clutching the strap of his bag.

Waiting for the right moment, he noticed an open hold, where sailors were carrying goods. He took a deep breath, then jumped up and quietly, like a shadow, slipped between the crates.

No one noticed him. His heart was pounding, but he didn't stop. He quickly found a corner between large barrels, where he hid from the crew's view.

- We did it - he whispered, leaning against the cool wood of the barrels.

The ship was still docked, and Max listened to the sounds from the deck, wondering if Lilly had already noticed his absence...

To be continued.....😻

*If you like the VMax Cats Family share this post with your friends, maybe they will like it too. Thank you for all the nice comments I have received from you so far. I really appreciate it ❤