The crickets are chirping again, daddy.

Is it that time already?

If I didn't know any better I'd be afraid

Of the monster beneath my bed.

 

Daddy, the only monster here is you

You have no tentacles, you are not blue,

Without claws or sharp teeth,

Only human fingers and a hunger.

 

The darkness nibbles at my flesh.

Every night I'm reduced to less and less

The only strength left is in my bones

Alongside the strong cries for death

 

And by morning, I will be nothing.

A mere heap hidden by the clothing

That you did not take.

A blanket, my teddy bear, so brave

 

And a silent house with no human remains,

Just a whimper and a shell

Of a daughter, only 17 years of age.

Daddy, the monster must be slayed.