War Hero

Am I curious enough to want your child? When she and I will soon stand, hand in tiny hand, silently watching as they bury your remains at Waikamete Shot down in battle right between bloodshot eyes blindsided. Hadn’t sensed the sniper, at zero paces, for years creeping beside you Awarded the Enlarged Purple Heart. The blackened liver of dishonour for services to the cigarette and an army of fine red wines Dutifully decorated these badges are scars medals earned, internalized but not displayed She didn’t know you, other than glorified war stories regailed and recounted while still in battle Your father was a war hero too, wasn’t he?