My hands tremble terribly as I
tear,
slash,
and shred
my napkin.

My hair is imperfection defined.
My make-up…
Reflects nothing I know.

With words soft as newborn skin,
I speak calming vespers.

"Did you say something, Darlin'?"

I shake my head, offering a shy smile.
Talk? Me? No…
I refuse to make a noise so afraid that I’ll falter.

"Baby, you okay?"
Your head is cocked, almost puppy like.
I struggle not to giggle.

Serenity is my rock and I smile once more for you,
all the while yearning
to dive into your fiery embrace.

But composure, I must keep.
So I destroy that napkin.