Scruff

He likes to stroke his scruff when deep in thought
A habit that he picked up long ago
He thinks it makes him look more wise and smart
But really it just hides his aging glow

His scruff is rough and prickly to the touch
It irritates his wife when they embrace
She wishes he would shave it off and such
But he insists it suits his rugged face

His scruff is part of who he is, he says
A symbol of his freedom and his style
He does not care what others think or gaze
He wears his scruff with confidence and a smile