A short intake of breath.
A clenching sensation
runs up my shoulders
and the hair on my neck
stands on alert.
I’m on edge,
but don’t know why.
Then the story
arrives,
making meaning
that feels
absolutely true.
The tone of her voice.
The look in her eye.
Not again.
This can’t be happening.
Why me?
What did I do?
I shrink into myself
and stifle a shiver
as I continue to strive.
No one should know.
I mustn’t let them see.
But my hand gives me away.
It shakes,
and the paper I’m holding
moves
as I try to speak.
My eyes water
as I realise I can’t
get the words to form.
This is important.
I can’t let everyone down.
What’s wrong with me?
The room is hushed.
And I feel every eye
judging me.
They know I’m stupid.
And so do I.