A satin ribbon, looped around her hair

In little curls, falling to her shoulders.

Her eyes encrusted pearls, her skin fair.

Her little lady-in-waiting, bolder

Yet smaller, greeting her with a grin of joy,

Wrapping the satin ribbon ’round her neck.

Tying it, a gentle bow, the ends join.

Her little fingers wave goodbye, a peck.

And then she disappears into the doorway.

The woman almost slips into deep sleep,

But little fingers settle a soft weight.

Wrapping the ribbon ’round her neck, they creep.

The tight pressure makes her sight fade away,

A small bow, and she won’t see the light of day.

–WP–

(Published March 2022)