“May I?”He murmured sweetly

Maybe so, I replied jokingly meekly

Mother will be watching, busy as ever

Making herself look bustling and clever

Man up, I teased and don’t be a sissy

Mother’s kind, but fathers tricky

Mind his size and move with care

Meet his eyes? Best beware

Marshmallow he is not be quick

Mean and fierce he won’t miss a trick

Make it fast if it’s a kiss you’re after

Mark my words he’ll chase you with laughter

Many have tried, mistaking his might

Mistaken his strength at sixty’s height

Missing in action is what was said

Maybe just maybe they are all dead.