1. **What does the author notice one Sunday afternoon? What is his mother’s reaction? What does she do?**
The author notices smoke during homework, and the room fills quickly. They escape; mother grabs a box but rushes back.
2. **Why does he break down in tears after the fire?**
The author's house, school, and cat are lost in the fire. Facing these losses, he breaks down in tears.
3. **Why is the author deeply embarrassed the next day in school? Which words show his fear and insecurity?**
The author, left with nothing, feels deep remorse, insecurity, and frustration at school without proper attire and study material.
4. **The cat and the author are very fond of each other. How has this been shown in the story? Where was the cat after the fire? Who brings it back and how?**
The author and his cat share a strong bond. The cat, missing after the fire, is brought back by a stranger who found the contact number on the collar.
5. What actions of the schoolmates change the author’s understanding of life and people, and comfort him emotionally? How does his loneliness vanish and how does he start participating in life?
Schoolmates provide supplies and support, changing the author's outlook. Emotional comfort, introductions, and regained possessions help him overcome loneliness and participate in life.
6. **What is the meaning of “My cat was back and so was I”? Had the author gone anywhere? Why does he say that he is also back?**
The author signifies the importance of affection. After losses and depression, he feels revived when his cat returns, metaphorically saying he's back emotionally, not physically gone.