clockwork

i’m brushing my teath

getting ready for bed

when you appear

just like clockwork.

at first

i don’t see you

and i don’t hear you,

it’s the assumption that you’re there

that makes me check,

and every time I do,

I find you there.

you’re minding your own business

relaxed

poised

and looking at you brings me chills

from my shoulders

to my toes

back up to my head

and i suddenly feel lightheaded,

your presence made me inhale too quickly

and i choked on air.

i’m terrified to take my eyes off you.

slightly panicking

i tear myself away

reach under my bathroom cabinet

grab the Raid

and spray

until your hundredth leg

stops its agonizing wriggle.

the ingrained memory of your thrashing limbs

haunts my dreams,

i feel you all over me,

and the thought of having to see your friends tomorrow

has me petrified

but they’ll be there

just like clockwork.