At the Gate
Conversation at the rehab entrance

Let’s say what we’re most scared of, he said.

You tell me.

I’m scared I will see someone I know, you?

That I will get hurt while you’re gone. That a dog will die. I’m scared that you won’t love me when you’re done.

That could never be, he said.

• • •

We said goodbye at the gate where he entered to get the help he needed.

Empty house, lonely heart, and idle hands for fifty-four days.

• • •

He saw someone he knew.

I didn’t die. A dog got hurt.

He’s home and he was right — that could never be.