That I expect to see her...

It hit me this evening. But not hard. She really is gone.

I came down the stairs and saw Lyra tumbling towards the food dish (she only has three legs) expectantly (even though it already full). Brother toted out from under the table, ready to take a #2 position in the food chain.

When I see this I automatically expect a third cat to show his/herself after I hit the landing. Its a reaction I didn't realize I had, but I have seen it hundreds of times. The order may be different, the 'third cat' may rotate membership, but there was always the pattern.

This time, no third cat.

She is gone.