The Things He Does

‘See, he’s not really a normal person.

He’s an animal

and you can’t tell when he’s gonna bite.

Not that he ever fights with me.

Not, like, directly.’

Nicu listens

without looking shocked,

without interrupting,

without making me feel like

a freak.

‘It’s Mum who gets it.

You wouldn’t believe the things he does

    to hurt her –

the punching and kicking –

and he makes me film everything

like he’s making a bloody documentary.’

Now Nicu winches.

‘I’m sorry,’ he says,

and reaches for my hand.