Another chance

His tie falls neatly on his broad chest
that's softer now, without its youthful definition.
He runs his hand through the receding hairline.
Briefcase is clenched in his strong hand.
Inside are contracts, folders and a stuffed giraffe
that he picked up for Jacob, his toddler
sleeping in the lap of his fresh-faced new wife
in a two-bedroom house in the suburbs.

The hand that wraps around the handle of the briefcase
used to land heavily across a face,
a face he loved but that could send him
into an angry frenzy until his hand became possessed,
making her body weightless, flying toward apartment walls.
Until her temple's contact with a protruding cupboard
ended the twisted courting dance.

After a few years in jail, he learned from his mistakes.
Took up yoga and cooking, following the counselor's advice
for new hobbies and calming activities.
Another city, another name, another chance.
He deserves it.
Everyone makes mistakes...