Wake

I find myself in a classroom with the lights turned off.

Masked dozens sit face forward in desks lined up like crops.

Organic, possibly ancient images travel across the room,

But the silhouettes of backs of heads obscure my view.

The teacher approaches, and with each closer step my sight starts to vibrate.

The anxiety is becoming unbearable. She knows. It’s over. It’s too late.

In an attempt to obtain relief, I leave my sweaty chair and move to the side of the room.

Just as I think I’m escaping harm’s way, my finger is grasped by an invisible doom.

Pure fear jolts through my body, like an electric shock.

The terror in my veins keeps my body frozen like a lock.

I’m dragged out of the classroom during a heart attack.

And not one person had dared to look back.

I see you. Or maybe it is just a reflection.

Fear seems to be more powerful than affection.

Trying to break you free from the spell, I realize that I’m under just as deep.

There is no chance of movement. The more I try, the more stressed and afraid I become.

Take me instead. I’ve done nothing wrong.

Quick and painless cuts so deep for too long.

Wake me from this nightmare, as hollow as space.

Or don’t let me die with my eyes locked on your face.