It all went awry

Twinkling fairy lights shed
chromatic patterns that shine
off tinsel creating magic
on glittering glass and pine tree.

Presents lie topsy-turvy,
strewn through the room like
a tornado touched them briefly.

Yellow tape closes the room
off from the dining room, away from
regular foot traffic; people.

Yesterday, the house glowed
with the warmth of the yuletide and
the spirit of love and family.

Yesterday, the carolers caroled,
the roast roasted in the convection oven.
Elf played in the background.
I don't know what happened.

I stare at the blood--
on the walls, on the gifts,
on the upturned face of
my better half, his eyes
closed as though he sleeps;
peaceful and happy. The knife
in his chest a mere cradle,
which takes him off to Never Land.

My arm is encased in a glove of blood that
itches as it dries.

I yearn to hold him, but they restrain me.
I call his name.

           He doesn't answer.