Another knock! I shall not show surprise.
I know that rhythmic hate behind their guise.
Stand where you are! The chain stays on the door.
Your presence marks the marble ‘cross my floor.

First you, now her? That twitch beneath her eye!
Your whispers sharp, still I refuse to die.
From her I came, yet she and you now jest
Your constant laughter causing my unrest.

Now, you—what urge has driven you to me?
You shan’t come in, so please, just let me be.
You bear a gift that’s neatly bound in twine.
A blade concealed, disguised as cheese and wine.

Oh, yes! I surely recognize your glare,
The murmuring that catches in the air.
Your eyes evade the whites I call my own.
You think me blind, but hostile thoughts are known.

You’re just like those before! This must be true.
Another explanation would not do.
Begone! I fear this plague may never quell…
It never has, but only time will tell.

But listen! Now, the knocking seems to fade,
No hinge disturbed, no figure casts a shade.
Perhaps the chain I’ve watched for days on end
Has never had a danger to defend?

I’ve lost the count! How many days have passed?
I’m lost between the present and the past.