ring

...over on Calle Los Infantes,
Greta creakily uncurled herself from a long, fetal-positioned slumber.
Her left arm and part of her face were still completely numb.

She reached for her smokes.
She lit one and rolled onto her back,
waiting for the pain that would let her know,
blood was flowing back into the right places.

The dog woke long enough to reposition himself on top of the covers.
Greta realized the small basement apartment was cold.

She lifted up one corner of the blanket.
The dog was grateful.
He curled up against her stomach.

They both sighed.