Just off the Trail

Hiking after dusk

Something rustling in the leaves

I see something there

Pale flesh on moonlight

The smell of freshly turned soil

Too dark to be sure

I already know

But have to be positive

Steel myself to go

My legs are steadfast

Stomach turning, palms sweating

Eyes don't want to look

A thin band of gold

Rising from beneath the earth

A young woman's hand

Hastily hidden

In this sorry shallow grave

Where is her killer

What was it I'd heard

Rustling through these thirsty leaves

Something behind me