Chambered

chamber a round
and step into the
darkness.

ignore the acid taste
in your mouth
and the tightness
in your throat.

push away the fear
and focus on that small noise
around the corner.

ask yourself
if you're sure
certain
that round got chambered.

remove your finger
from the side of your nine
and wrap it around your trigger.

you know where the sweet spot is.
that point in the pressure
built into your weapon
when you know it will fire.

take it just this side of discharge.

now...
make yourself swallow
hold your breath, and...

step around the corner
and do your job.