Seeing his old net
leaning just inside
the broom closet door
reminds her of the
one who got her rats out.

She would spring straight up
pogo-stick-style
onto a chair or stool
and shriek.

One shrill squeal and
her rat saviour
would come running
with his miraculous net.

A hero in husband clothes.

He knew that curve on College Street
was dangerous when it rained.
Suddenly annoyed at his carelessness,
she wonders who will get her rats out now…