Hold—then take,
a stove will broil,
begging for a break.

Mask—and fake,
a dime in a fountain—
more time for you to waste.

Gift—wrapped, taped,
presently presentable,
wrecked in wake.

Task—but pace.
Asking for a pardon:
isolate.

Disconnect—show face.

If bearing teeth feels instinctual,
wishing won’t help—
it’s still not safe.