Creative Coping

Pulsing frame cool against

My hot cheeks burning through

Finger cage of cupped hands.

Fringe spilling over hands held

High to keep out awkward offered affection.

Fringe gaping to expose the shame of

An exaggerated forehead.

With mis-placed hairs in mind

Hot cheeks singe and

The current is fused.

Now, Mascara’s tracks are blurred to bruises

And smiles flake the face,

Like butter too cold for bread.