The atrium was cool but not cold despite the winter rain that fell gently through the opening in the roof. Messalina reclined upon her couch and gently stroked her newest acquisition. His name was Tiger Africanus and she thought he was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen. His muscles were tight and well defined and always ready to spring into action.
Tiger began to purr at the touch of her delicate fingers. He was the only Ocelot in all of Pompeii.
Pomponia placed a plate of fruit and some wine on a table next to Messalina making sure the table was between her and the cat.
"Oh I am so bored I could scream." Messalina said as she plucked a juicy fig from the bowl.
“Pluck up your sprits.” Pomponia said. “Who knows what the day will bring.”