SUN SETTING

xxxix

TOXIC
/ˈtäksik/
adjective

1. it's star-splattered skin and inked flesh begging for a beginning, their sorrow too deep a river to swim. it's a cold temptation sending rattles to the most hidden bones, not even the thrashing waves can escape the constant shake and thud. it's a longing for the summertime storms that turn the sky yellow and grey, warning prey of the oncoming danger. it's the look in fears eyes as they ignore it.

2. but it's also universe freckles that fingers twitch to map, create a something for them that you hope they believe. you can't stop the ache in your head and head that just keep wanting, hoping, wishing for them to find that sole star in a black hole. it's stroking their hair and racing to their apartment when you fear for them because looking out for yourself no longer exists. and a cruel part of you can't help it.

3. it's messy texts at twelve o'clock, fear pulsing through as hesitant messages are tapped out, fearing one wrong word will send them off the top floor railing. it's a wine dark dance where under the masks are monsters and your holding hands with devils. it's screaming and crying, it's nothing. it's an ignorance, a shrug of shoulders and a nod of the head when someone asks if you're okay.

4. it's standing on the beach, a storm oncoming and broken seashells washing ashore as you stand there, swallowing harshly, but standing.

— this is screaming, but this is tender.