Boy crouches.
Trying to discard his fear.
Listening to secrets
He knows he's not to hear.
Boy hides.
Listening for sounds
Of heavy, angry footsteps,
Whilst his heart in his throat pounds.
Boy stands.
Hands clasped behind his back.
Eyes cast determinedly downward
Anticipating the smack.
Boy sits.
In the corner of the room.
Small shoulders trembling slightly,
As he awaits, once more, his doom.
Boy cowers.
Away from Father's belt.
But still it strikes again,
Leaving bruising and angry welts.
Boy lies.
Staring listlessly at the wall.
Never blinking, barely breathing
As the tears begin to fall.