When Roman Smith was just 9 years old, a small kitten named Gandalf — lovingly called “Gannie” — entered his life. It was 2003, and from the very beginning, the two formed a connection that would last nearly two decades.

Through every milestone of Roman’s life, Gandalf was there. Childhood adventures, the ups and downs of teenage years, and even the weight of adult decisions were all shared with his constant companion. Each morning, Roman would wake to find Gandalf curled beside him, softly purring as if to offer comfort and reassurance.

Gandalf’s personality made him unforgettable. Though small in size, he carried himself with confidence. In a home shared with larger dogs and other cats, he always managed to stand out as the true ruler of the house. Yet, despite his bold nature, Gandalf’s heart was gentle. A single touch would turn him into a bundle of affection, eager for love and attention.

As time passed and Gandalf grew older, his pace slowed, but his closeness to Roman only deepened. He became a steady presence during late-night gaming sessions, a demanding voice at mealtime, and a source of warmth that filled every corner of their home. His quirks and routines became woven into Roman’s daily life.

After nearly 20 years of shared memories, Gandalf’s journey came to an end. Wanting to honor the bond they had built, Roman did something deeply symbolic. He put on an orange shirt—the same color he wore in their very first picture together as a boy and his kitten—and recreated that photo. The new image, with Roman as an adult holding Gandalf one last time, captured the essence of their extraordinary friendship.

Though Gandalf is no longer by his side, Roman carries the love and loyalty of his cat in his heart. Their story is more than just about a pet and an owner—it is about the enduring connection between two souls who grew up together. For Roman, that recreated photograph is not just a memory, but a lasting reminder of the comfort, laughter, and love that Gandalf gave him across two decades of life.