Alex, the alley cat, had no home. He was left out on the street to roam. Nobody cared about the poor, cold Alex. Sometimes, he had nothing to eat, not even fish or thrown-away meat. He seemed so grumpy every day. He never smiled or liked to play. When the other cats came, he ran away. Life was just not easy as a stray. Poor Alex slept on the ground. Perhaps that’s why he was always frowning. He wished his life would turn for the better, since he was always so lonely. One day, Alex found a friend named Lucy. She cared for him and held him near. Lucy gave him food and kept him warm, and made sure he was always happy and safe. He was no longer cold and scared, as he had found someone who really took care of him. Lucy’s kindness made Alex calmer. Now, he often purred and smiled.