I rescued Jack when he was just a few days old, but Joey decided we were raising that baby together.
This video captures a little of the love they shared.
Joey washing him, wrapping his paw around him, and patiently letting him “nurse” on the little nubbin on his paw. And tiny Jack, snuggled into him, taking in every bit of that comfort. Joey was his safe place.They loved each other fiercely, and that bond lasted as Jack grew.
When Jack was diagnosed with feline leukemia this past spring, we brought him home for one more night. I told Joey what was happening and gave them time for their final cuddles. Joey was especially attentive to Jack that night. I hope, in his own way, he understood and knew he had that last chance to love on his little buddy.
After I came home from having Jack put to sleep, Joey cried out for days. Those heartbreaking meows are something I’ll never forget. He was mourning, too. I had lost my sweet Jack, and Joey had lost the baby he helped raise.
Watching him grieve while my own heart was breaking was its own kind of hurt. Mostly, I just wished we both had Jack back.
I’m so grateful I recorded this. What was once an ordinary little moment is now something I’d give anything to return to.
You were our baby, Jack. Joey’s and mine. We still miss you, and we always will.
I hope you enjoy this tender moment as much as I do.
~Freya