a favoured over-estimation

Calmness leads to claws
flexing, with eyes 
closed or keenly
narrowed and fixed on
the sleightness of
disturbed air between
my incoming finger tip 
and his whiskers or 
incisors. 

An assumed cute boop 
results in bloodshed 
or rough abrading licks,
my hand or his meal
depends on whose needs
prevail. 

A strange noticing 
paralyzes my next
action, any reaction
either way, staying in 
or leaving his clutch
will be painful and
forgotten and 
forgiven before
dinner time. 

Regardless, I assume 
ownership of him, 
his care, and any 
injury that results
from loving him as
I do.