Why does my Cat make me so happy?

So I got a new kitten like 5 months ago and I love him so much. I have always loved animals but I feel like me and him(Eric) are like spiritually connected(platonically lol). He always cuddles me, meows only to me and he once followed me all the way to a bus stop?! Anyways,I have one other cat and I do love her too but it is different with this one. My family often pmo but whenever Eric comes and sits with me I feel like so much happier and at peace. Actually he is with me rn as I am writing. I am pretty protective of him and ig i am a bit like a maternal figure for him. He is a very clingy kitten and loves attention. I just wanna know if it is normal to have such a strong friendship with a cat.