Night.

The man slides under the sheet

and wraps his strong arms around her

all night

as though it’s

the most natural thing in the world

his slow humming

against her nape

keep her awake all night

thrumming with adrenaline

and terror

for something inevitable

their chests press close

legs tangle

blanket wraps about their hips

the heat, like a fist, slowly strangles her alive

she does not fall asleep

she blackouts.