Eliza, your dream carries a mix of emotions, both positive and negative.
On the one hand, the presence of your stepfather, who has passed away, suggests a sense of comfort and connection to the past.
He is seated on a wooden chair, a symbol of stability and grounding, indicating that he provides you with a sense of security and support.
On the other hand, the appearance of your partner's cat, who has also passed away, evokes feelings of loss and grief.
The cat is being held by your stepfather, suggesting that he is helping you process these emotions and come to terms with the absence of your loved ones.
The fact that your stepfather is staring and smirking at the cat could be interpreted as a reflection of your own feelings of ambivalence towards the loss.
You may feel a sense of sadness and longing for your loved ones, but at the same time, you may also feel a sense of peace and acceptance that they are no longer suffering.
Overall, this dream seems to be a way for you to process your emotions related to loss and grief.
It suggests that you are seeking comfort and support from those who have passed on, and that you are gradually coming to terms with their absence.
Given the intensity of your emotions in the dream, it might be helpful for you to consider talking to a therapist or counselor to further explore these feelings and gain support during this time.