You’re watching me
From your blanketed perch
The spot we’ve made for you
On the left side of the couch 

I’m in the kitchen
The reason
Your interest is keen

But I pretend your attention
Is something like love

Something like
The way I love you
Which feels like held breath 
And fills my empty spaces

Even as I know
You’re merely calculating 
A piece of carrot? 
A slice of cucumber, maybe?

Weighing the likelihood
Of a treat against
The comfort of the couch

There was a time
When you watched
From up close
And only
Pressed against my leg
Or with a nose in my lap

Ever optimistic
No matter how many times
I never
Shared my dinner

You’re more discerning now
Better trained perhaps 
Or maybe just tired
Aware of your aching body
As I am

You see 
I watch you, too 

And I feel my heart ache 
Each time I imagine
Your side of the couch
Without you. Watching me

© Amanda Reilly Sayer, 2019

* In honor of my dear Chapin, 13 years old today ❤️