Settling In

His footprints are heavy;
a trail of setting concrete
covers the household.

She fears that she won't be
able to remove
what remains
of the final settling;
if only their relationship
could be cured.

He works harder than
the concrete mixed into his hair;
she is becoming colder
than the stone path leading to
their doorstep in the depth of winter.

She doesn't know what will
become of the love they share
for their children;
he can't help but try to change
for the sake of his family.

His habbits have kept him
from living
up to his full potential as a father;
she says it's his last straw.

He stands outside with his lighter
in his shakey hand
debating if he should start a fire.