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.