No-help Line (Poetry)

A voice downstairs is screaming
our hearts sent beating wild
we're fearful for his safety -
a young defenceless child

We've dialled the given number
and detailed our concerns
we're waiting for the police car
anxiety slow-burns

The clock ticks off the minutes
an hour has gone past
there's now a deathly quiet
a ceasefire that won't last

There's still no sign of rescue
no gallop up the stairs
the cavalry aren't coming
the truth is no one cares