Stray

Patrolling her territory,

my world,

never coming when called,

always checking in

distant and affectionate,

refusing my offerings

until just beyond my reach,

owned by no one,

she is mine and I am hers.

 

This nebulous non-arrangement

somehow evolves

my capacity to love

and accept love

without labels, trinkets,

tags, or attachment.

 

Then she’s gone.

** *

I followed imaginary garden with real toads’ Flash 55 PLUS! Prompt, complete with optional “Worlds Apart” vs “Extremely Close” themed challenge. This was a fun one. I feel like it’s been too long since I hopped on the lily pads and played a bit.

Go here to read other contributions to this prompt.