Every night at ten o'clock, there was a visitor at the window.
An orange, chubby cat with a gentle purr. He belonged to the neighbors. His name was Marmalade.
The window was closed. Marmalade would sit outside and watch.
One day, Selenga noticed. “Why does Marmalade always come here?”
Asking Questions
One evening, Selenga opened the window.
“Marmalade, why do you come here every night?”
Marmalade purred.
“Are you waiting for something?”
He purred again.
“Do you want something from me?”
Marmalade looked at her. Then at her face. Then inside the room.
“Do you want to come inside?”
Marmalade shook his head. Or at least, that's how it seemed to Selenga.
The Mystery
Selenga thought hard. Then she understood.
“Are you coming to watch me sleep?”
Marmalade didn't move.
“But why?”
Marmalade purred. A long, deep purr.
Selenga laughed. “Are you restless at night?”
He purred.
“And watching me helps you feel calm?”
Marmalade blinked slowly. Just once.
Together
“Okay then,” said Selenga. "You watch me, and I'll watch you."
Selenga went back to bed. She lay down. She turned her face toward the window.
Marmalade watched.
Selenga watched.
They both watched.
Then Selenga's eyes closed. She fell asleep.
Marmalade stayed until morning.
Every Single Night
Now this became their routine.
Before bed, Selenga opened the window. “Welcome, Marmalade.”
Marmalade purred.
Selenga lay down. She slept.
Marmalade waited.
One night, Selenga's mother saw them. "What's this?"
"We're sleep buddies," explained Selenga.
"You'll catch a cold with the window open."
"Then Marmalade can't watch me."
Her mother smiled. She brought an extra blanket.
Questions Parents Ask
**Can cats really sit in one place for hours?** Absolutely! Cats are patient observers. They can watch the same spot for many hours without getting bored.
**How does a calm person affect those around them?** When someone peaceful sits nearby, we naturally feel calmer too. Scientists call this “social regulation”—it's real and it works!
A Note for Parents
This story is perfect for bedtime routines. Children who love cats will especially enjoy it. Great for kids who enjoy watching the world from their windows and noticing small, quiet moments. The gentle pacing and simple language make it ideal for ages four and up.