this is not an innocent habit.
he is glad his hands do not shake any more.
that was a not so subtle reminder that he didn't drink water.
THEN he knew water had its place.
it cooled the open sores where acid pooled
washed the stale scent of bile
off his teeth, thinning from corrosion.
NOW he understands that he has been marked
the vultures trailing his scent.
he still struggles to drink water in the morning.