my fur is red
as a flame, my claws
can cut you to ribbons
without even trying – let alone
my razor-sharp teeth.
my wild, wide green eyes
fascinate my prey
for the few short moments
before its death.
the unearthly sound
of my howl terrifies
anyone and anything
in hearing distance.
and yet, if I love you,
if you are found worthy,
I’ll sit by your side
tame as a housecat
and purr. pet my
silky fur, feel
my deep rumbling growl
and know that
I can defend you
better than several
armed humans can.
surely you’ll want
to stay in my
good graces.
