Jasper (so named for her jasperite like patterning, my daughter likes minerals) adopted our family as a skinny little street cat. My daughter begged us for a cat for months and she just kinda showed up which was perfect. Shes got what we think are siblings that come by but shes the runt of the litter as she has remained small while the other kittens are now big bois. I kind of love that. Smol little cat thats tough as nails is the goods.
Apparently she had a place to crash across the street but stopped going as they had too many cats (her previous staff told us all about her and gave us their blessing to take her in). They think she was born and abandoned by momma cat in the alley out back. But she persevered and now she's got a forever home.
Shes street smart, but now lives with us mostly in doors and doesn't seem to mind. If she does go outside its just to hang on the back deck and take in the smells.
I freaking love this cat. Lots of personality, always down for some pets, constantly wants to be with us but can handle her own and will let you know when you're bugging her.
Your post reminds me of the book Starter Villain by John Scalzi. If you enjoy light scifi and cats, it might be worth a read.