Promise of Pedigree

Trembling under the streetlight, with tears glistening beneath your midnight eyes, your tiny nose nudged my pinkie, and you promised-

To lick the scar on my elbow every day, that still stings somewhere deep.

To nuzzle my hair when I bury my mascara-smeared face into the pillow.

To sigh and curl closer each time I turn a page of my mom’s half-torn journal.

To bring me your one-eyed plushie every time I bite the end of my pencil too hard.

To paw at my wrist each time I twist my sleeve raw in crowded rooms.

To lie on your tummy and watch me hum my favorite melody to sleep.

To follow me from room to room when I don’t know what I’m looking for.

So, I made a promise to fill your bowl with the same love you fill my heart with.

Pedigree. The promise that fills us both.