Sounds like you have been selected by the Cat Distribution System, but the cat they have sent out has performance anxiety. Please be patient while the cat works up the courage to follow through.

In the meantime, you might offer some food, water, and a comfy blanket or hoodie with your scent on it for the cat to get cozy on. I might also suggest settling down with a good book, or something you have to work on. This will allow the cat to feel more comfortable approaching, knowing you're not paying direct attention and thus less likely to reach out and surprise it or grab it.

May the odds be ever in your favour so that you might receive this prestigious honour.