Feeling fear
under thin skin
through fatty tissue and mindful muscle
that holds memory unconscious, captive
with stiff hip sockets
and wobbly knees, that crack when stepping softly
on grinding unbrushed teeth,
clenched lockjaw.
Coursing veins open round the clock for CBC samples
A pulse — steady, slow beat — spirals up the down spinal column,
leaking synovial fluid
to lubricate nervous system and ward off artery occlusion
Pinched nerves at the core plum line, centered
With heat generator set at 98.8 fahrenheit.
Hot flash
Hormonal fueled flow, monthly non-stop menopausal cramps
Rushing to itch unscratched surface
Virginity intact, deflowered
Resulting in full flush
Rosy, red cheeks
Rash
Shy smile
and cute dimples.