Ace of Hearts

The bedroom door is barred.
On one side, a child playing solitaire.
A forced, unfazed expression;
steady, focused, plays the part.
Protection from his ear drum’s rocking,
wondering himself, “For what transgression?”

On the other, incessant knocking.
Screaming voices, feign discretion.
Dust is settled, door unbarred.
The door creaks open, looking in,
a pause for quiet contemplation.
Inside: the child playing cards,
steady, focused, ready.