Who is Belle in the memoir, The World According to Bob: The Further Adventures of One Man and His Streetwise Cat?

Belle is Bowen's best friend. Though they dated in the past, their relationship is strictly platonic in the present. Throughout the text, Belle frequently features in Bowen's anecdotes. Belle is one of the only other humans with whom Bob has a close relationship. While staying with Belle during his DVT recovery, Bowen begins to wonder if Bob would be better off living with Belle. He notices how well they get along and how much Bob likes her neighborhood. Belle helps him understand how much Bob loves and needs him.