Possessed

sometimes for days he rests, sweet faced
his charm is like a sweet embrace
he cleans the kitchen, cooks the food
when he is in a mellow mood
and every time you’re so easily fooled
thinking addiction has been over-ruled

but when the monster stirs and wakes
with hunger in his eyes
God help the cringeing victim
who chances to be nearby
at first he asks in friendly tone
as if it were his due
but if you should refuse him
he’ll start harrassing you
he’ll pave the way for pity, shame
with his twisted truths and lies
and if you will not play the game
he’ll grow to twice his size
he’ll threaten, shout and growl
his face will grey with rage
beneath his hooded cowl
you’ll see him start to age
you’ll try to leave, in fear and shaking
while deep inside your heart is breaking
he’ll block your exit, grab your phone
he will not let you leave alone
he offers an empty promise
in exchange for your honest one
and when the promise unwillingly slips
from between your pale and twitching lips
and you know you’re honour bound
he opens up the door
and follows like a hound
over to the cash-point
where he stands his ground
then calmly takes your money
without another sound

and then the monster sleeps again
but soon he will awake
and turn his face toward you
your very home to take

©Jane Paterson Basil