She looked at his shoulders
Gazed in his eyes
The glint in his stare
Caught her by surprise

She guarded the cave
Until she was sure
The little ones inside
Were to be harmed no more

She let him advance
Watching every move
Until the cubs came in sight
The claws dug a groove

An emergency evacuation?
No! Jugular on repeat
Weakening his heart
Unsteadying his feet

She left him lie by the cave
As a warning to others
Cubs will be protected
Forever by their mother