Half chewed, spit-laden sneaker
heel side up,
poised on the floor before me as I walk in the house.
A prize or a punishment?
Jack and Gus on each side, bookending this display,
this once favored half a pair of shoes rendered useless.
Their eyes holding a range of playfulness, fear, remorse, love.
They sit, awaiting my reaction to decide
which will flavor the evening to come.
It’s not their fault, I decide…
the shoe is no longer important.
Tonight, love will dominate.