the cat's paws

the cat's paw
prints
after stepping into
the tray
of white paint
are everywhere.
across the carpet,
onto the piano,
on the counter,
the stove,
and into the bathroom.
the petals of her
feet are white.
her nose
too, thinking
hopefully
perhaps of milk,
not paint.
behind her you trace
her trail, and with
a damp cloth,
you wipe.