there's this one sliver of space at the core of who i am.
i am drawn to it. it hurts me. and i like it when it hurts.
i used to ignore it but now it has grown on me. welcomed invader.
my silly attempts to squeeze it out make it go deeper.
i know that now.
i let it sink in.
i tilt my head left. slightly. pull my hair behind my ear.
and bare my neck. one eye eyeing it. full of intent.

it goes deep. i let it.

and the deep will breathe a space where no face
can be found.

it blooms a multitude.
and i stare into it. scarry-eyed.
even tears come near
but they only brim.