Corona

Everything is all right

she lies. And watches smiling faces holding

pictures of hearts and rainbows

jumping up and down.

Daddy says it’s time for bed

She tosses her phone on the sheet.

Stares at a blank TV.

Remembers the touch of them,

the weight of their warm bodies on her shoulders and lap.

How long will this last?

Nyx sends the drone of trucks barreling down the interstate

to sing her to sleep and she dreams of them snuggling into her.

Tomorrow she will put on her armor again and help strangers

battle an unseen enemy.

What do we know about love’s austere and lonely offices?