He holds her, the first night, as a vassal might,
Like an open palm grasping the sea, two bodies held tight.

In the morning he sends the most rebellious of her servants away, his lordish voice

Like the corrugated roof of a storm cellar. The next night
He holds her as a brother might and whispers to her promises infinite.

In the morning he clears out the rest of his father, the collaborator's, men and

Reconstructs a new household for her filled with ratite
Smiled girls. The next night he holds her as a father might.

In the morning he fires Cornwall's loyal steward when he dares to talk of repercussions and

Relocates his personal effects to Regan's room and calls himself her new right
Hand. The next night he holds her as a lover and calls it a new birthright.

In the morning he walks with hauteur through his father's house, lord of all that meets the eye,

Regan undeniably his. He does not bother to hold her on the last night
Before she sends him to her sister, the earth beneath them ready and waiting to ignite.