I am Three

Today I am three.
I lie in my play pen,
Listening to the blaring tv.
It's so loud.

My nightmare is home,
I cannot sleep.
Country music rings my ears.
I have no idea what is happening.
Mama's eyes are red, and watering.
And daddy looks angry.
He eyes look like murder.
I watch as he flings mama against the wall.
Her screams, I will hear years from now.
My mouth is dry, but I know better than to ask.
Daddy's fist are swinging and he is screaming.
Nose to nose is where they are.
A few punches and mama is on the floor.
Her shirt is soaked in blood, from her mouth, ears and nose.
Mama's eyes are swollen shut. She is pale. She is sleeping.
I pretend I am asleep.
But one eye is always open.
Daddy looks at me and says a word I am not allowed to say.
His breath smells strongly of a burning odor.
The odor is familiar. My tiny wrist burn with his last Marlboro.
The clock reads 12:02.
My nightmare is home.
Today I am three