26. From Kitschgeist - Unlikely team
Moriarty looked out his window at the snow and frowned. In this weather, business would be slowed. But no matter. He had a more important task at hand.
"Come, Cloud," he said, and the small, fluffy grey cat rubbing against his ankles meowed. She followed after her master as he moved into the front room and settled in his lap when he sat in his armchair.
"We must decide what to get Moran this year," Moriarty told Cloud. "I wouldn't get him a thing if he hadn't already bought me the decorated atlas I'd been eying. I fear we are getting too close into friendship instead of a respectful working relationship."
Cloud meowed as she butted into his elbow.
"I suppose sometimes these things can't be helped," he agreed. "Heaven knows I didn't mean to befriend you, and here I am."
Cloud's tail flicked.
"Oh, don't be offended, Cloud. You know I love you."
She purred.
"Back to the matter at hand. Moran. A weapon seems so cliche. A book? No, you're right. Hm." He scratched Cloud's chin for a moment. "Gilded playing cards?" Cloud blinked in agreement. "Excellent. I'll have them delivered. Thank you, Cloud, as always."
Cloud rolled over with a demure purr, ready to switch to the more pleasant task of getting tummy scratches. Moriarty obliged.