Predators Lurking

I dare not move as I watch him, Cautiously approaching his food. I know if he catches sight of me, He’ll be gone and it may be for good. You’ll remember my writing about them, The stray mother cat and her kits. They seem to enjoy my offerings Of the tastiest small kitten bits. The mother cat had learned to trust me And we’d taken a trip to the vet. He gave her the shots that she needed. And all of her needs had been met. She didn’t hold it against me And still liked to sit on my lap. I so hoped that each of her kittens Would soon use it too, for a nap. One morning they didn’t come begging, All day didn’t come for their food. The next day and the next I worried, Knowing something had happened, not good. A whole week after their going, One of the kittens returned. He was lank and lean and quite terrified. What has happened is yet to be learned. I pray that sometime I can tame him, And for all that I know he’s a she. I’ll know gender for sure if in springtime She brings her small kittens to me. By: Joye Johnson 7/5/12