Emerald

By Umara Shaikh

‘Emerald', my neighbour's stout cat, 

A fine kitty mostly lingering around, 

Indeed a friendly & lovable soul, 

Nonchalant if taken to a boggy stroll, 

With time she was turning scrawny, 

I heard no echoes of her hysterical 'purrs", Concerned, I bought her favourite treats, Just to know she was dispatched to the streets, 

My heart shrunk bearing this vicious act, 

Blast of emotions flowed through my veins, 

As I used to steal moments from my schedule, 

To play with Emerald and her ball of wool, 

Few days later, I meant to be passing the lane, 

Saw a cat lying in the corner, nearly dead, 

"Emerald", I ran to save my poor friend, 

Piteous, as the days, alone she had to spend, 

I took her home, cleaned her and fed her, 

My ears witnessing the happy meows, 

Running around the room feeling homely, 

Her jolly face bloomed like a fresh lily, 

For sure carelessness turned her gaunt, 

Timely attended she again became chubby, 

Now my whole time revolves around my pet, 

She also considers me her bestie, I bet…..

By Umara Shaikh