Two tiny hands

Suspended in water

Fan out like the wings of a bird

Gliding up and back down

To make

A splash!

And land

In the hands

Of her mother.

The daughter begs

For another chance

Just 5 more minutes to play

As she swings their arms back and forth

Soft skin

Soothes the angry rash

That covers Mother's hands.

Her palms are rough

Calloused from working

Day in

And day out.

But her touch, is gentle

Her love fills the rental flat with warmth

With just enough food and water

To keep each other

Together

Just them, soapy suds and bubbles

Giggles bouncing off the washroom walls

Hands intertwined

Daughter and mother

Mother and daughter

Together

They make a promise:

Two pinkies hug each other.