The bigger picture

The last time they saw moving, the Ex packed up and left as a surprise to all of us. The last time they saw this, one of their people never came back again. While they've never liked moving, it is worse for them this time. They are anxious, milling around me, begging for attention with renewed intensity. They need to rub my hand NOW. They need to play fetch NOW.

I think about the impact the Ex's departure had on me, but it doesn't occur to me to think of the cats as grievers. But when they beg and whine and look up at me with those big eyes, it's clear that they worry there might not be a tomorrow. They need to be petted NOW in case I don't come back.

Overall, we're all happier now, but we all have the hurt of being left behind. All three cats and me.