Day 1: My husband burned the house down.
I put the cats in the car, waited for the children to get home from school.
He took off in the other car before the firemen finished.

Day 2: The kids and I stayed with various friends,
until we were offered an apartment.

Day 3: I moved myself, kids and cats
into the apartment with donations from strangers.
I signed the lease, not allowed at that time,
only a husband ‘s signature was valid.
The manager told me to make sure he signed it when he returned.

Day 4: He returned. He claimed there were plenty of women
who wanted him. I told him to find one.
I did not mention the lease.
I drove him to the bus stop,
bought his ticket,
waved good-bye
and exhaled.