I was raised by a tiger
with smooth fur 
and sharp claws

always alert

crouching 
to the strike of her paws 
and the bite of her fangs

shivering
at the roar of her laughter
and the gnashing of teeth

too weak to confront
her tense muscles
and keen scent

soothing her 
with sweet words
and ripe fruits

trying to tame her
patting her back
and cleaning her teeth

waiting for her
to lose her teeth,
her strength and fury

but now

I am a tiger myself.