The Subtle Knife
By mark_yelland-brown
- 147 reads
Then this spider and this fly
The web, the net of intrigue
That binds.
The facts are naked, pure
Justice is you, here, now,
But behind your eyes
The heart is processing the betrayal.
So they act out the scene
God knows why.
Your deflation extinguishes the fire
That first sparked his spider antennae
Petulant prey, offended
At his victim not quite playing the game.
Offers his victim strong spirit
In a crystal glass
You sip to numb
He thinks he’s won.
- I’m glad you come
- It’s fine, what do you want?
- Just to be friends
Your smile is so thin
It cuts and draws blood.
- Or whatever
He’s staring into your eyes
He thinks disarmingly
Experienced as an exposure of intent.
You saw his tiny grey soul
Quietly, slyly leave the room.
The spider, smart in shirt and tie
Greased hair and strong cologne
Leans over and whispers:
- I wish you knew how much I really like you
Telepathically you scream
Your loathing into the empty space
That held his heart.
- No, I’m flattered, but…
Standing straight
This time a smile that reveals, large white teeth
And over confidence.
- But?
- Nothing
You shake your head
Your role so defined
It’s made you cold.
The next morning
You wake to the room spinning
It’s empty
Spider’s gone
So has that part of you
That paid in full.
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