Pick up teeth from the carpet,
hide under eggshells in the bin,
cancel the appointment with the dentist.

Mop blood from the lino,
straggles of cloth sprawl in pink water,
scrub the memory with bleach.

Ask the girl at the counter
which foundation is best for a blemish,
get it home and sponge over bruises.

Catch the reflection crying
preen her til she’s quiet,
gag with flowers freshly arranged.

Smile on the school run
pretend the kids are happy,
(she thinks it's the reason she stays).