The Problem With Leaving a Light On

you have left the light on again 
without meaning to

then the cat jumps up
this allure of unconditional affection

tonight, his silky purr
presents as an offer of comfort;
or perhaps the animal wishes 

to take something from you instead,
the thing you hold close 

he stretches across your flattened, resting body
one paw on your heart
the other feels for your jugular, your blood
you can never be sure