Bed Time

Bed Time

Softer then brighter

the unsteady glow

illuminating my paper

just enough

to make out words

when at its brightest.

I hear him in the next room

hoping he’s thinking of me

hoping he’s feeling guilty

angry that he’s not.

He’ll give in eventually

‘cause I won’t

ever.

What’s the time?

Has he forgotten?

Does he think I left

and gave in?

He can’t have

I’m making to much noise

for him to ignore.

He hasn’t

He threatens me.

He doesn’t realize

I won’t give in

I can’t give in

ever.

Why?

What compels me?

I don’t know

and he definitely doesn’t know

but when I find out

that’s when I’ll be able

to give in.

He’s turned out the light.

I can no longer see

even by the unsteady glow

of the computer

as it sleeps

and I don’t.

Ayelet Schrek