‘It’s about time you grew up’ she says,

as though he doesn’t know that theory.

‘All I said’ he starts to say

but she’s not interested

in all he said, slamming

the door as she leaves.

He’s both feet on her coffee table

when she later tells him it’s over:

‘Get out and take your ugliness with you’

is how she puts it.

GEOFF HATTERSLEY