I walk into the room and your eyes leave hers to find mine.

I'm nervously pulling at a loose thread on my sleeve,

I don't want to ruin anything— 

like you ruined me. 

I'm begging you,

don't unravel this singular thread on my sleeve.

I don't want anyone to see,

this heart hiding underneath.

Don't take off my sweater,

go home and undress her—

touch her,

not me.

16 January 2020.