you cut corners 
when it comes
down to a choice 
betweeen aches 
that slide up 
your body 
like a hand 
of a desperate lover

and those in the house
that are under your care
you make sure 
they’re taken care of 
each problem 
becomes priority 

until it’s late 
in the night 
and that familiar ache 
become lightning
infused nerves 
lain under the skin
thin fingers 
splayed out

another sweat soaked night