A dog trailed behind its breath a soft cloud

A dog trailed behind, its breath a soft cloud,

as we walked through puddles, shadows entwined.

With each wagging tail, I felt oddly proud,

yet this scruffy thing wasn’t mine to remind.

It paused at corners, eyes bright like the street,

we wandered through alleyways, finding our way.

A silent companion, in chaos we meet,

shared warmth in the chill, though it’s never to stay.

I glance down to find that muddy paw print,

a mark of connection in the pouring rain.

Two strangers finding what’s lost, just a hint—

in a world of alone, both of us gain.