Poems of an Introvert

Don't talk to me that way

Stiff as a board.

Your voice tells me "Failure. After everything I do for you? Repay me!"

Eye contact. Never blinking.

Runrunrunaway! Escapethegaze! Escapethesound!

I can only stand and stare, nodding in affirmation.

"Do better. I've done so much for you. This is my kindness. The Other is so much worse, do you want that?"

No. Lip trembles. Deep breath. Don't show weakness here. A nod. Please don't.

"Get back to work."

RUNAWAYRUNAWAYCRYRUNCRYRUN

No more words. No more sounds.

Heard breaks releases blossoms don't let the dam go.

Obedience. Fear. Only speak when spoken too. You can do nothing. You are nothing. Carry on.

Why is it this way? Why can't it be... different?

THERE IS NOT OTHER WAY. NO QUESTIONS KEEP WORKING

I don't need you. You need me.

NO WE PROVIDE SO MUCH. BE GRATEFUL. YOU NEED /US/

.......

..................

I don't think I do though.