CONTENT WARNING: Abuse, Violence
Her left eye’s swollen shut.
She chipped a tooth this time.
The right side of her face pulses.
“I won’t do it ever again.” he promises.
He seems sincere,
like the other 1000 times.
She nods.
This time will be different,
this time it will be true.
He professes his love for her
as he eats the dinner she’s prepared.
“So good,” he says.
He coughs
then chokes.
He gestures to himself
and his need for help.
“I’m sorry,” she says,
remaining seated in her chair,
her face unwavering.
“This time I’m holding you to a promise.”
