Toby Cat

Bright green eyes filled with fear

Fur risen, ears flattened.

Toby runs away when I come near,

Like I'm a prison and he's threatened.

Toby the cat and Eli the human

Go together like oil and water.

He is the first to reject my hand,

To reject my continued offer.

Oh Toby, won't you come cling to me?

They may feed you, but I can set you free.

Free in what way you may ask-

Free to cuddle, free to flee

Into the outside you so desperately long for

Despite your trepidation at the front door.

The neighbor's cat whispers its siren song

Sniffing the grass while you sniff the floor.

But if you can stomach my presence for a moment

Perhaps I could alleviate your need for lament.

If you'd give me the time of day,

Perhaps you could have your way.

We could be the best of friends, you and I.

Too bad you hate me too much to ever try.