She Came for Him in Central Park

On the prettiest bench he could find
Hiding from the death gatherers
In full sight, but blinding them with the red
Plaid shirt, blue jeans, against a leaf flying day.

Autumn. He never thought it would happen in autumn.
September his favorite month. Squirrels were chasing.
Children’s giggles floated into his ears. Sun on his face.
He left the instructions in his back pack, but this was Central Park.

Someone had stolen them and the backpack.
It did not matter. No one would claim the body.
He sat back and smiled, admiring the grim reaper 
She came stealthily toward him in a woman’s body.

Copyright © Caren Krutsinger | Year Posted 2019