Conflict of Fidelity

The dying embers crackle

Over the murmured voices.

“It’s time to face the truth, my friend— 

“Your wife has been unfaithful.”

But the fire goes on smoldering

As he sits and plots.

“What can I do to reveal the truth,

“To confirm and retaliate?”

Busily the fire waves, lighting up the room.

The trap is set; he leaves the house.

The camera winks and it hears her say,

“Come over. It’s safe, Ares.”

The fire roars in the hearth

When he sees the tapes.

“I trusted you, my wife, my love,

“And yet it’s all in vain.”

Still the fire burns and burns

While their family gathers ‘round.

They clamor ‘til they think to ask,

“Hephaestus… what say you?”

At last the fire quiets,

And he admits a final truth.

“I can’t forgive, and yet—and yet, 

Aphrodite, I still love you.”