Night Shift

I am eight or nine, home with my younger sister --

Mom is working a night shift.

My sister can fall asleep anywhere quickly,

Like a light turned off -- click and she's out.

I am watching TV until all programs run out

Because I'm terrified of being alone at night.

I would never admit that to my mother

Because I don't want to burden her with my fears.

And because I have to be brave for my sister.

It's just the three of us ever since

My father left us forever.

I'm lying on the sofa, watching TV

Watching but not watching because it's all for grown-ups

At night. No cartoons or Yeralash, my favorite kid comedy show.

I can hardly keep my eyes open, lulled by the sound of TV

I keep on low volume.

But I'm afraid of falling asleep in case an intruder shows up.

Suddenly I'm jolted by the noise of static.

The programming is over but

It takes me a minute to realize that.

Dazed and confused, I look at the TV and see

Blurred faces and bodies moving from the screen toward me.

They are trying to break through and out but can't.

Another sudden sound breaking through the static noise: the phone!

I'm letting it ring for too long, trying to get my bearings.

I pick up the receiver, hear Mom's concerned but soothing voice,

"You didn't pick up right away. Did you fall asleep at the TV again?"

"No?" I'm trying to protest.

"Are you still on the sofa?"

Denying it would be silly, the phone is right next to me, "Yes, mom."

"Why don't you go to bed, honey. Everything's OK? Sister asleep?"

"Yes, a long time ago."

"I'll be home long before you have to go to school."

"Yes, mom, good night!"

"Good night, sweetie!"

After hanging up, I'm facing the static noise again.

I bravely unplug the TV and head to bed in the dark.