and he’s holed up
in the hotel. Spent the whole day
flying while she was going to doctor’s
appointments. Now waiting for the

results. Thought he should get some sleep
because he’s got a busy day ahead
of him in the morning. She’s wide awake
pacing the floor. Every step makes a

creak on the boards. They’ve never
been replaced, just like him. He’s on his stomach
soundly asleep like a baby. She’s wondering
what will become of her life? And if maybe she’s

going down for the final count. Does she have  
the will to survive? Can she hold out this time? It’s
been too much and too many years have flown
past her. While she’s counting the hours to her

next drink he’ll be showering and suiting up to look
swanky for the afternoon. God, it would be sublime
just to hold him in her arms. But he’s holding today’s
busy schedule right there in his hands. He looks over

himself in the mirror before he leaves the disheveled
bed for the maid to fix up once he’s left. Don’t forget
to hang the sign on the **** to let them know it’s ok
to come in so they can deliver fresh linen. Now he’s off.

And she’s off her rocker. Did he pick up the socks
off the floor? Will she pick up herself once more,
like the many times she had to go on without him.