The pills my physician prescribed for smiles
swirl down the spotless steel drain of panic,
trickling through the acid-coated pipes.
Anxiety flags my attention
forming bubbles in my throat
as I remain silent
lightheaded with a cross to bear,
a burdensome fate
to the face of fear
through the redemption of my tears.
I’m black and blue without a clue.
Dead-panned stares
fumble confessions.
The salt of her introspection
cracks my voice with an anguish
that I couldn’t bear to touch
even if in a rush.
I close my eyes, lift my chin, and swallow
trust with forever on my lips.

(© 2022 AC)
(Wattpad, Amazon Kindle, Spillwords, The Writers Club)