Within Me (Skyra Rideaux- Carencro, Louisiana)

I know who you are
knotted cords of binding, wrapped around the hurt
That skips rope to the thump of Jazz
Winding around purple forget-me-nots and baby’s breath
Nestled deep within my essence, rotting in the space
Where butterflies and fingertips curtsied
I know who you are
Walking away from 213 reasons why you should stay
Yet choose to tap right back to grimy slums of shame
Embracing every lingering scent of betrayal
Remembering the ambiance of coral pearls
Strung around my neck, you laugh
I know who you are
Cracked sidewalks, liquor, intentional groping
Swaying to the charms of my juices flowing down the street
Covered in the blood of stolen invitations
Forced kisses, all for the sake of making your
Acquaintance
I know who you are
Silent strangers appearing in circles I frequent
Smiling through lens colored vases, opening doors
Opening doors which were closed for business
You broke in, you broke in, you broke me
Puddles of rivers leading to your stench still on me
I know who you are
Friend of my friend of a friend in my house
Your shoes are still parked near my bed, tossed slightly
Under piles of garbage where a pocket rings incessantly
Calling for the man who forget his dick
Inside of me
I know who you are
Thief of my voice, smothered in 8 years of fear
Footprints still etched on my thighs, scarred on my
Left breast, I remain lost in black sheets
Right where you left me to die
With no way to call you
I know who you are
I know who you are
But you never remember my name

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