Finally Square

Secure in this room all earthy blue and green, a comfort unknown to me for many years

In Plainfield, stairs (if oak or pine, I can't recall), and daddy coming down

Looming even taller than when I grab his hand in both of mine and pull with all my might to no effect

I have waited for him to come  to  me to set me on his lap on the bench that runs along the hall to the kitchen

Though the house must have rollicked with the three of us, it strikes me now as quiet

Afternoon sun cutting through curtain breaks to reveal swirling planes of dust. In my mind it holds still. 

I hide behind the chair which sits before the TV that does not work.
I have a splinter and fear his help.

I tell him Jamey is not lying, but he takes his belt off.

I ask him when we're going to visit mommy. 

I pray like he tells me and wonder why I don't hear an answer.