My neighbor thought that she was getting bites
from fleas, although she doesn’t own a pet.
When I got bit my research led to mites
from rats beneath the house, who must sublet
from all the skunks and possums I observe.
I’m at a loss so yesterday I called
some experts I expect will have the nerve
I lack, to look at how I’m floored and walled.

My neighbor left her key with me today,
and I’ll defer departing here, to meet
the man I hope will drive the bugs away.
I’m starting to suspect we have discrete
but linked invaders at our separate sites:
in front some fleas from rats; in back some mites.