Barefoot she went walking to the store.
Her father had sent her to buy bread for dinner even though
There was plenty left over.
It was a three mile walk to the nearest community shop.
Far away from home she saw a bunch of soldiers nearby.
She was preparing a shy smile when
She felt them approaching her.
As she heard them spitting at her half spoken phrases
With half spoken words, her legs froze.
Next thing she felt was their breaths full of liquor and lust.
When she could finally lift her head
She saw the image of a girl.
Perfect reflection on a mirror hang on a muddy wall.
Her body naïve and vulnerable.
Her eyes full of stupor and disbelief.
Their odor and saliva possessing her.
Through a half opened window,
I see the seesaw of the sunset lifting the moon,
My father would be looking for me I think, soon, soon…
Hours have passed.
The men are exhausted but will not stop.
Suddenly, I hear a familiar voice!
I open my perched mouth yet manage to overhear
My father bartering away
my childhood, innocence, will and trust.
I am no longer me, I am an image in a mirror.
On object destined to serve.