Room 192

Claudia Wysocky

TW: Implied Physical/Sexual Assault

I have gotten used to invisible hands.

They held my gaze, whispered to me.

Like a phantom lover, they mesmerized me.

It has only been a short time since they touched me,

And yet I am certain I can feel them now.

I do not want to—I do.

Soft steps approach me, whispering as they walk.

My fear burns my veins, chills my body. I try to flee, but I cannot.

Wings like storm clouds surround me—upon me—and I am drowning.

—Ah!—What is this pain lurking within?

You reach up, press your lips to mine.

The pain is gone. I bleed no more.

—Only for a slight moment, does the cold embrace

Once more, leave me to cry.

On the ground,

—Alone with sad thoughts

I run for cover

Before someone sees me

—As I see you,

Staring from the dark

Your cold deathly stare

Tangles my thoughts, blinds my eyes, blinds my eyes

While I lay here,

Slowly digging

A grave for my heart…

—A perfect grave

Among shoes and ties.

Because you run.

From room 192.