They say war is hell, but, darling, true
hell begins when the battle ends and you're
the only one whose hands still drip red.
- the real war rages in your heart; it always has . j.s.
***
I can't go in.
The door is closed in front of me, blocking my access, but it's not the wood that prevents me from entering. My forehead leans forward, pressing against the frame as I take in the sound.
Orion's cries can be heard.
Faint.
Muffled.
Maybe he had a pillow pressed to his cheek, but I knew better.
Judging but the layer of skin I had seen him wear this morning, it was probably bloody knuckles that were clenched down tight in his teeth while he cried.
I should go in.
I should go in.
The knob stares in front of me, waiting.