The Panther

The panther crouches.
Grass rustles in the breeze.
He strikes! The sun blinks.
Late! Too slow! His prey is gone.
Hunger grows. His stomach sounds.

He hears the call from home.
He turns, tail flicking in anticipation.
Success! Hot food waits.
He sounds his pleasure as he eats.

Sated, he sleeps .
He purrs, a gentle sound
That shows his peace.
I watch. I see
The panther on the couch.