She slumps over him
best friend, a furry lad
strokes his rough brown hair
labored breaths
his eyes half locked
wee droplets seep out
her forlorn face
head elevates
to catch a glimpse
of his wet nostrils
she awaits, not a stir
blank stare
her eyes plead to blink

"It's time"
she quivers, clench fists
needle plunges deep
"He's gone"
she implores to stay
he rests peacefully
asleep as the motionless stars
his only caregiver
in silent tortuous mourning