Guard Dog

I watch from a distance, like a flea-ridden mutt you fed once on the street. I wait outside your front door, and follow you to your car when you leave for work. Only to make sure you're safe, because I'm meant to be a protector. Yet the evidence of my past makes a lasting impression on my skin. I'm weak, I'm scarred. I'll protect you till' I'm bleeding out in your driveway, with my tail tucked between my legs. If you kick me out of your way, I'll let you. And still wait for you by the front door. When you finally open your home to me, I'll never come inside.