Dryer Vent Ghost

The dog pulled me past

that brick apartment block,

and there it was, that puff of steam

from the low metal grate.

Warm Tide or Snuggle,

or whatever it is

that makes everything feel clean.

Someone else’s comfort,

someone else’s sheets

tumbling soft,

warm as a cat.

I just walked on,

leash tight, cold air biting.