right hand pointing

A secret sits heavy in your face.

When you're tense, it's as if

everything else is likewise.

For example, the stove is stressed.

Radiators hack and cough

their anxiety.

Walls tremble, floors shake.

Everything is held hostage by

this bit of news that you're about to relate.

"I . . ." is the first word out of your mouth.

The refrigerator's hum is still as jittery as a fly.

But at least the lights have stopped flashing.