The real-life cat's description matches the cat in the story. I haven't seen him now for nearly two weeks. I'm hoping he'll show up again. When I give him the food, I can tell he's been gaining trust in me, a bit more each time.
The story does have kind of a sad ending. But I like to leave a door open in case. :)
I've been working on mine for a month, maybe two since I first noticed him hanging around. He'll now let me stroke his back while he is eating a morsel at my feet, but hisses at me when the bite is gone. I've never tried to tame a feral cat before. It's interesting. I sure do not need another creature to care for though.