“Clockwork’ [by Ivana Kilibarda]

Clockwork

We sit still for
three days, watch four movies, start five arguments.  You say “I love you” six times.  I say “It’s been seven years, about
time.”  You repeat “Why?” for eight hours
straight.  I cry for nine minutes.  We eat ten meals.  Discuss history on eleven occasions.  The clock strikes twelve.  I’m starting to lose my patience.

— Ivana Kilibarda