Pink Lady

A worm wriggled into my tender flesh Breaking through my skin Bruising as he went I still feel him writhing long after our embrace The emptiness created now full of disgrace

All ripe for the picking It was me that he chose Did I shine brighter? Heaven only knows Did I beckon him, With the colour of my skin? He clearly thought he was invited in

I must have been swaying in an enticing way For him to besmirch me twice that day

In flocks you arrive Callously Judging our appeal As you glance my way, “Damaged goods” I hear you say Disapproval pierces my fragility Rotting and ready I free-fall, Hopeful Into a bed of grass May my daughters fair better- After I pass

Humming peacefully An unwanted suitor approaches Searching for cider apples He encroaches Plucked from solace, Only moments spent free Another man decides How best to use me

Sofia Martimianakis completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at the University of Toronto and her MA at the University of Waterloo. She is currently continuing her education with creative writing courses and is working on a fantasy novel for young adults.

Cover photo by W on Unsplash