what love is

the cat shows her love
and appreciation
for all that you do
by dropping
a dead mouse at
your feet
as you sit on the couch
watching television.
no words are said.
no exchange
of pleasantries.
just thank you, you say.
how nice,
as you go into the kitchen
for a dust pan
and a broom, setting
out cheese
and traps for other mice
that might be
running loose.