Make believe

You go through an elaborate charade

like a consummate actress

to hide the ugly truth

makeup, scarves, huge sunglasses

and full-sleeved clothes

you convince yourself that

it was always your own fault

and are grateful that he takes care of you

that he always has your interest at his heart

and the assault and the battery is well-deserved

for you brought it upon yourself

when you misbehaved

no one loves you as much as he does

you repeat like a litany

as you cry yourself to sleep.