A watchful eye

hopeful, lingering

through the night

on grayed hair

falling, landing

unexpected, invasive

Heavy steps

in creaking hallways

Sagging skin

draped from tired eyes

The pale rider

catches my gait,

sees me lurking bitterly

in the shadows

He stops, observes

then carries on

This night is not

for me

and he has been

patient

in his claim

of Lords and Kings