The Beginning of the End

The house was empty

only went to check on it.

Everyone had disappeared

except for Grandpa

he'd just died.

The living room door was

open

the little dog ran away 
down to the basement.

Come back.

He did 

but not alone.

With her.

One of the missing 

Where have you been?

She didn’t know 

couldn't remember.

A strange air of contentment 

years lost to--what?

No answer.

I am not so brave anymore

Don't make me disappear

or sleep in the basement

let me be in the open 

I will never tell

I swear.