The stabbing pain at my temples
forces my attention away
from the glaring light
of my computer screen

I let my thoughts wander,
subconsciously tasting
the sweet remains of chocolate
in my mouth.

A loud bang alerts me.
Then another.

I open my window
to listen for more.
Cold air rushes in,
replacing the warm,
thick air of my room.

Another succession of bangs,
accompanied by cries
from the birds that flock past,
silhouetted
against the city's light pollution.

The explosions continue,
and people in their gardens
ask 'What's that?',
gasp 'Oh my God!'
and hurry in.

Then it stops
and all I can hear is my heart
racing.
And for the first time this hour,
I begin to type.