Alone Time

I hold my breath as tight as

the latch on the side door

Our pets paused, heads cocked waiting 

Listen for the engine to turn

Tires rolling backwards

And howl

Tilt my face to the full moon

It takes me a long time to unfold

Run my fingertips along 

the belly of this discomfort 

This quiet

I could be anyone I want right now

Answer to no one and nothing

The prospect so devastating

I’m still looking for myself

When the doorknob twists open again