Oh so sorry for your loss. I had a chill reading your story. There is no doubt in my mind he definitely knew you loved him. Cats may act all standoffish at times but they surely do know who loves them. It is so curious how he showed up right after your other cat passed. I sometimes think our cats are gifts from God. My Buddy was definitely a gift from God. Showed up at my house, no one knew who he belonged to. It was at a time when I was very sad and down after my marriage failed. Take care.