This last weekend I finally got Jack to hold still long enough for me to pet and hold him. For years, whenever I housesat for our friends, this big guy would hide under the furniture only to come out to eat when it was quiet. Jack remained afraid because he makes a crying noise like a sonar device to make sure the coast is clear. With Tiki passing away, Jack has been asserting more dominance and personality.
I was very gentle and soothing with him. Whispering to him “it’s okay big guy,” which got Jack to purr somewhat. He’ll eventually get accustomed to me for I will be checking in on him all this Summer.