In unsafe houses, housing
twenty year friends who’d pierce
protective vests
for you
you tell her love
because vigilante trained
cult recruits
aren’t badly timed
but inconsequentiality,
men-led Bible study
breakfast youth group
at which you learn
wanking’s wrong.

The lesson her husband
teaches you
is commandment
achievement unlocked Xbox
game trade.

Until you scalp him
she’s his.