A Wolf in the Twilight

I’m on a forest trek, and night

will soon fall, heavy as a winter pelt.

For now, it is nostalgic dusk:

fresh bruise toned atmosphere agape

Steps muted by my ardent heart pulsing.

Erratic, excited rhythms of exploration.

As wide eyes meet the soul of a lone predator:

lupine, intelligent, steady on my own.

What an inquisitive Wolf, I think,

haunting on his own, half latent by guarding Pines.

Heated breath on my pebbled skin;

Neither of us will blink, measuring his threat

Against my own, two creatures so alike.

until we turn cheek as one:

transparent, honest agreement of coexistence.