gleams of silver are
whispered in my ears --

they giggle at my conscience
and call me out to play.

but my knees are far too skinned
from falling prey to their tricks.

(and i'm afraid, dear, that
i have lost track of my casualties.)

i have long since scabbed and
scarred over, though --

and she pierces my heart with a grip
so strong that i need no escape
to drown out my silenced screams.

the air has been cleared,
and i can breathe.