It’s my duty..........

My bedroom is warm and cosy

It should be safe, a place of sanctuary

Behind that closed door

Blankets pulled tight around my neck

I’m not safe, I’m unsafe

Because this is the time

It shouldn’t be like that

It’s our secret he once whispered in my ear

Eyes tight shut blocking out the vision

His breath tinged with the devil

His devil is whiskey, by the glass, on the double

The creak of the stair tells me it’s time

I know its time

Time to do my duty

Eyes clenched, I cannot see

But I can see in my mind’s eye

I can feel everything

Hear every grunt and moan

Until his hand rests on mine

It’s over

The bedroom door clicks shut.

Father’s day is over

That is, today is over

Another day soon, to do my duty!

Celia Poppinjay 19th June 2020