I watch the time.

It gets closer and closer to the end.

Some invisible and undefined line that I am aware of.

Closer and closer until I feel like I might lose my mind.

Cursed knowledge that might or might be.

Until the clock ticks to zero.

***

Sometimes I might know the time limit.

Or at least think I do.

A verbal telling.

A hard fact in statistic.

Then when the clock hits zero and nothing happens.

That moment is the hardest because it makes me doubt the clock.

***

I try not to watch the time.

I get more done that way.

Not sitting dizzy from the hands.

Eyes on the goal instead of the polished face.

I might be able to beat the clock this way.

I could win.