Awaiting

Boards jump as she ventures across the rustic structure.
Rough-hewn timber trusses creak and moan
settling into deep pilings. A train rumbles
in the distance, a whistle blowing across wasted farmland.
Silver frost drapes the cottonwoods, winter’s embrace.
To the west, the sky is alight – flames of pink, purple
blossom. To the east, a flock of night’s ravens
swoop and dive nearing her, drawing
darkening pewter sky.
A hawk screams in the night. A soul in pain,
prey falling victim to talons.
Water glides on to the mighty, muddy Mississippi.
A sullen girl awaits love’s return.