For the six weeks or so during which we worked desperately to keep
Speckles alive and comfortable, Hobo "disappeared" -- not physically
but "spiritually".  He gradually stopped coming into the living area
and began staying behind the toilet in either bathroom.  Weird place
to choose, and difficult to give him attention, insulin injections,
etc.  He had already begun avoiding Speckles like the plague.
Anywhere she'd been, he'd sniff and promptly leave, until he simply
stayed away from the rooms entirely.  We accommodated him by feeding
him in the bathroom, moving his litter box closer, trying to coax him
out.  

We don't think he was jealous of the round-the-clock care we gave
Speckles.  He got his share of attention,  his own visits to the vet,
as much loving as before.  We wonder if he instinctively knew Speckles
was dying.  Perhaps he felt maybe he'd "catch" her illness.  Perhaps
after she went to the RB, he thought  we'd make HIM "disappear" too.

Anyway, for the past couple of weeks, he's been coming out, a little
at a time.   Day by day, he'd come to the kitchen, pass through the
living room, even to the room in which Speckles had stayed.  NOW he's
back!!!!  Once again he's on his perch watching the squirrels, birds,
and chipmunks from the window.  Using his favorite blankie again.
Even startled me by jumping into bed with me!!  Only for 5-10 minutes
but it's a start.  The whole house is once again his kingdom.  YAY!!!
My boy is home again!!