after Galina Zhiganova, A Woman Cuts the Hem of a Kimono so as Not to Wake a Cat, 2007
By Sofie Zarceno
Before I leave to face the world
I give her a kiss goodbye
She gives me a stare
A glare that says
I love you
Her eyes open wide as I come back home
I’m sure I had her worried
She licks her fur as I get ready for bed
Guarding me as she sees fit
Always by my side
She likes to stay
Keeping me warm
And protected
She curls up in her spot to my left
And finally closes her eyes
Knowing I am safe
The least I can do
Is let her sleep