You are holding as many of your socks as you can
their little limp skins piled and draped over you
I put the laundry away a few hours ago
so I am instantly irritated
as you drop them at my feet
but something on your face looks different
a wobbly mix of resolve and concern
so I ask you as calmly as I can
why you have excavated your sock drawer
you said everyone’s socks had crashed
so they can have mine
I think back later
and wonder if you will remember my explanation
or just how I slid my hands
inside two of your favourite rainbow socks
and let them do the talking.