Ladena looks at me and says
"They're not fitting in there right."
I open your mouth a little bit farther.
I lift your upper lip, find the dental ridge,
Push your plate onto your palate.
I ask Ladena if we should put in your lower teeth too
    and take them from her.
Your tongue is soft and your teeth slide in easy.

I've been combing your hair, undoing the tangles,
Now we reposition your head.

We got here.
Since then, I've been holding your hand
Telling you
"I'm sorry, we can't take you home yet.",
Watching your breaths come in faster, shallower.

Paul,

I've always been afraid to touch you;
To fight you yes, but to be kind no.
I brush your hair, restrain you, hold your hand, pose your head just so
Because now,
Now,
Because now I am not afraid.