The following story is a finalist in the Rescue to Royalty Challenge. Three grand prize winners will receive a $250 shopping spree, while a shelter of their choosing will be awarded $2,000 in cash and needed supplies! You can read more stories here!

Adopting my sweet tuxedo Maine Coon, Zoe, was one of the best decisions of my life.

PHOTO: LORI READE

Her sweet spirit and loving face gave me a smile every morning. I loved coming home at night and seeing her smiling at me when I opened the door. She was always there, waiting for a cuddle. She gave me countless hours of joy, purring up a storm, while I read.

She would jump up behind the backseat and watch the world whiz by when I was driving. If I hadn’t seen her for a while, I only had to go into the bathroom to find her lounging in the window, looking out at all the birds. She was a very calm, soft, sweet girl.

PHOTO: LORI READE

She was very skittish when I first brought her home, from the abuse she had endured. She came to trust me and finally gave her wonderful love to my friends. My friends always had a sweet word and lots of petting for her after picking her up and listening to her sweet purr.

I loved Zoe very much and I was very sad when she passed over the rainbow bridge. She brought immeasurable happiness and joy into my home, brightening each and every day with her unconditional love. God broke the mold when he made Zoe!

PHOTO: LORI READE

This story was submitted by Lori Reade in support of Texas Maine Coon Rescue. You can read more Rescue to Royalty Challenge stories here!