Like a proud parent, I introduced him to every corner of his new home: my apartment. His name was Apolo. Not because he looked particularly majestic, but because long before I found a cat, I had already decided that if I ever had one, his name would be Apolo. 

His first night was spent making strange noises that I later learned were called meows. 

Whenever I cooked, he would climb up my leg, work his way onto my shoulders and settle

comfortably on my back as if I were a piece of furniture.

He was affectionate.

Protective. Playful. Perhaps too playful. He slept outside my bedroom because he had developed a particular fondness for biting my toes while I slept. 

As the weeks passed, I learned how to take care of a cat. At the same time, Apolo slowly took ownership of the apartment. Still, we respected each other’s sleeping arrangements.

Each of us had our own territory. Until one night. Around three in the morning, I woke up terrified. Something was sitting on my chest. I couldn’t move. I couldn’t breathe properly.

The presence was invisible, yet I could feel its weight crushing me. Today I know there are scientific explanations for experiences like this. Back then, however, I was convinced a demon had entered my room. And if there was one thing I knew with absolute certainty, it was that I needed to let Apolo in.

I have no idea where I found the strength to get out of bed and open the door.

There he was. As small as ever. Pink nose. Ridiculously adorable face. The kind that makes you want to smother a creature with kisses. He immediately rubbed himself against my legs and around my body as if he were cleaning something away. Then he walked into the corridor. And that was when it happened. I never saw what was there. But I remember hearing it. Somewhere between my bedroom and the living room, my tiny cat transformed into a Bengal tiger. His gentle little voice became a roar.

I never found out what happened in that corridor. Or what spirit had decided to pay me a visit that night. What I do remember is Apolo returning a few minutes later and demanding breakfast.