Tethered to him

by a leash

But much more

by our love

We enjoyed our walks

I would lead

But I loved

when he directed me

around

Our walks gradually shortened

I wanted more

He needed less

Remembering that day…

We went inside

He lay on the table

I got so close

I smelled his breath

inhaled his life

He shared his life

with me

for one more moment

I lay on his chest

His eyes gradually closed

I licked his face

And begged him to stay longer

Then I jumped off

And was led away

tethered