Mermaid (hallucinations)

Even the changing rooms are like a cattle market.
Half naked, self conscious, surrounded by total strangers.

The pool itself is hot and humid.
Girls in bikinis chatting up the lifeguards.
I wonder if they know their mascara is running?

The temperature is rising.
Sweat glistens on the perfectly toned muscles that pull the girlfriends
closer.
Their swimsuits leave little to the imagination.
I don't need any of them.

I plunge into the deliciously cool water that frees me from the
claustrophobia outside.
I am a graceful shark, cutting through the water, released by the
strength and power of my arms.

One length left. My muscles crave the oxygen, that my lungs cannot
supply.
It is then that I see you, a shimmering mirage with hair of spun
gold.

I breathe again, but you are gone.
With all the hugs, kisses and false adoration, the only thing I want
has vanished before my eyes.