i can feel the shadow of dog
the quiet looming of dread 
in the hint of a breath
on the back of my neck
but nothing is there when i look

i can feel the shadow of dog
as days become short
the soft click of their paws
on foundational floors
are felt by my unhearing ears

i can feel the shadow of dog
in the scent of the chill
as the autumn leaves fell
from tired trees 
that no longer care

i can feel the shadow of dog
i know that it's here
but what colour they are
when i open the door
is a choice i make once again

©ceenoa