I wake abruptly 

in the darkness,

the word inkling

ringing in my ear

like an old alarm

clock dancing 

chaotically on my 

bedside cabinet,

I have a vague

suspicion where this

rude awakening 

will lead me as I

reference the word,

disturbed by the 

glow of my light

she mutters grumpily

‘I thought so’, under 

her breath and turns

her back against me

to resume her snore,

I have half an idea that 

I am done with sleep 

for tonight 

© Graham R Sherwood 07/25