you're fine

you almost

wanted to be sick,

to have

a fever

when your mother

came in

shaking the glass

thermometer

before sticking it in

under your tongue

and saying

close.

you wanted

to justify your day

home from

school.

tucked in tight,

a cold cloth on your

forehead,

hot cocoa and treats

brought to you,

books to read,

television to watch.

let the world

outside go on without

you.

you're fine.