Catch of the Day

with a drawn-out *purrrrrr*
you ripple into view
and splash into my lap
like the robin
that once frequented our birdbath

were the mangled remains
of that thirsty bird some sort of
belated birthday present?
or perhaps a peace offering
from when I scolded you
for your repeat offence
against the threadbare couch?

now, with another *purrrrrr*
your heart-shaped nose touches
mine, and I feel the rumble
of the ocean
in both our chests

the ebbs and flows of your moods
are unpredictable, but
your furry body is much warmer
than any sea

that you lean into my touch
tells me you love me…

and also that you're hungry