A guarded friend

have you ever played with death my friends?
he's not your usual pal.
he slinks in shadows to avoid bright eyes
and hates to draw attention.
sunlight he detests-
so darkness it must be
if looking for a fling with
guarded mister death.
his pursed mouth shows melonchaly
his papery skin shows neglect
his voice sends chills through the warmest of days
and his touch able to freeze hell.
but his eyes show that yearning
that loneliness from others
that lack of love one could only expect.
his captivating stare haunts you deep into the night
and yet to steal away with him,
if you would dare,
would be your life's last flight.

be wary young friends for though his appearance subdued
it's of his eyes you should be cautious
he's quite alone
in his shifty cold corners-
but be caught in the draft!
you'll be gone forever..
be prepared to play his games.