I look down at the mirror and see
a me with flesh and blood in her teeth,
a grin washes across her face
as our eyes meet and carve out space.
I can’t bear to look at her at first—
the monster staring back at me.
I thought her words must be cursed.

“Looking away won’t save you from me.
We are already the same, you see—

You.
And.
Me.

So look away if you must,
but just know—
I’m in every shadow that you leave.
Every breath you take
gives life to me.”