Paul’s hand rests on Lori’s independence.
A few days ago it was her thigh.

The disappearance of Lori’s affection
leaves Paul covered in dust.

Each chooses seconds
to negotiate the terms of a duel.

The seconds urge them to visit
a couples counselor.

Lori and Paul chose yelling
and screaming instead.

Their yelling and screaming cleared the air,
but a new front brought in more storm clouds.

The seconds tired of Paul and Lori
making their lives miserable,

suggested they start over
with more attentive ears.

But Paul and Lori grew up in homes
where yelling and screaming was part of love.

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copyright 2020 Kenneth P. Gurney