When he comes home, it’s the most exciting thing in the world. I can recognize his footsteps as they near the door, and I run to it. Of course, I always wait back a little; I gotta look cool, after all. When he steps inside, I greet him. That earns me a pat on the head, or a good ear scratch. Occasionally, when I can see the bottom of my food bowl through spaces in the kibble, I lead him to it. I don’t know what he does all day outside the house, but there’s no reason he should skimp on the food in that time.
It’s pretty nice, just him and me. I get my private time when he’s away, lounging in the sun or attempting to jump on the highest cabinet. And when he gets home, I get my much deserved petting and affection. It’s a good, ten minute rub down. I usually bite him to let him know I’m good.
Once I’m over it, he goes about his business. Sometimes it’s watching the big picture box on the wall. Others, it’s staring at a folding square picture box and pressing the buttons on there. I like that one. It’s warm, and I try to sleep on it, but he never seems to want to share it.
I know the female version of his species exists; it's what my doctor is. But other than her, I've never seen one up close. They're always on the picture boxes, or walking around outside the window. If they're anything like the doctor, then I know why he doesn't want to deal with them. I mean, she has a gentle voice, but she also pokes at me and sticks needles in me. Horrible.
Sometimes, he looks sad. Like he’s missing something. He doesn’t really talk to anyone but me, but why would he need more than that? I'm fine with my sun beams and ten minutes of affection.
Tonight is one of those downer days. He’s been staring at the big picture box on the wall for a few hours now. I can tell something’s weighing on him, but I don’t know what. I never noticed the lines in his face or the greying hairs peaking from the sides of his head. He looks more tired than usual. So I crawl on his lap and purr. He smiles at me, and rubs my neck.
It’s okay, man. You got me.