His were simple, ordinary words.
It was how they were said, sharp-edged,
with a smudge of frown on his face.
My mind had been far away,
so it took time to absorb the venom.
In decoding the message,
blood rose to my face.
My scalp tingled in response.
Indignation took over.
Then futility and exasperation welled up.
I knew I could never
show justification for my actions,
that would make sense to him.
That night I lay awake, restless,
trying to control my anger.
His dagger had pierced me.
