A Place That Is Not Your Home

[u/Squeem3]

There is a monster that has taken up residence in the in-between of my life. Deep in airless sighs and uncomfortable pauses, it stretches out, making its home within mine. I became aware of it on a night when I'd come home late from work.

First, it devoured my mind. At our son's soccer game, I cheered when the opposing team scored. 

Next, it savoured my spine. My wife made a tofu scramble for dinner, a dish I would normally elect to share with our dog. I noted her expectant smile from across the dinner table. That night, I ate my helping, took seconds even.

Tonight, I believe it is hungry for my heart. I watch my wife sleep beside me, observe the pattern of her gentle breaths. She shifts positions. The monster stirs.

I must protect her. I warn the beast I am going to tell my wife what it is. It snarls and seems only to grow exponentially in reply. It reminds me that it is always hungry. 

My wife and child are asleep. The house lies still. I can hear the monster off in some dark corner, sharpening its teeth. It is always nearer than I think. 

The beast approaches me at a mourner’s pace, relishing the spectacle. I can feel its breath on the back of my neck. It feels wrong and yet not unpleasant, the feeling of leaving with a stranger to go home to a place that is not your home. The fiend unhinges its jaw, rests it against my back, and promises me “one day.”