I am paralyzed and putting my trust

in this thing weighing down on my chest.

Putting trust to the strength of my ribs.

Heavy and panting and clammy and wet.

Only the whites of its eyes, its teeth show.

I dart my eyes for figure. I cannot turn away.

I blink twice for yes, thrice for thank you.

With pajama bottoms at the foot of the bed

I make out shapes in the popcorn ceiling