he shakes; he’s shaking; why are you shaking?

you’re scaring me.
Please, control yourself.

his arms are flailing, his eyes are blank.
he’s  about to collapse… Watch out for that pole!
he shudders; he’s shuddering; calm down.  
it’s quick, fast-moving.

his sharp movements cool into a warm silence.
no more flailing arms.
and he has me hold him.
he’s  not moving,
his    heart is beating through his ears, pulsing.

and I have my arms around him now.
he shivers. then falls asleep.