Examining her surroundings,

as if they are a creation on a screen.

It’s a lively scene

but the music and talking is dulled,

like she’s caged by an unseen barrier.

Cast in the role of spectator,

she watches on from her confines

as the others exchange lines.

With total disconnection, complete disassociation,

from the world: a prisoner in her mind.

 

Mind equally protective and toxic,

denying either connection or loss.

No chance of being hurt.

No chance of being heard.

Solitude: the comforting denial of emotion –

allowing withdrawal into herself.

No chance of being hurt.

 

She resumes her observational role,

outwardly controlled until...

 

Their eyes meet and she remembers he’s here.

He smiles.