Short Stories

Feeling Alien in a Busy World

This is how I feel when I am alone.

The sounds of words shouted in my ear.

Predator eyes watching me as I wander.

Look at that. Don’t look at me

Sitting in the middle of the desert.

Nothing around me except the lights above.

I am the only thing to see for miles.

Look at that. Look at me.

My existence is an invitation for your stares.

An arm brushes mine, but I do not see it.

The stars twinkle down on me.

Look at that. Don’t look at me.

I want to leave. Why can’t I leave?

I need to be here. It cost us. Just try it.

I don’t feel safe. Men watch my body.

Look at that. Look at me.

Their gazes turn on me in my bathing suit.

His hands grab at my bare legs, my naked arms.

I pull away. The hand disappears. I’m not sure it was ever there.

Don’t look at me.

I wish I were in the desert.

Nothing around for miles except the lights above.

Lifting me up, up so I can get away to somewhere safe.