The Watchers

[KaliTracy]

The Watchers
~ for C.


After school we take
the forbidden sidewalk.
We know we aren't supposed
to walk here. We've been told
that it's not the place
where little girls should go
for it's too far from the main
road. But we found a secret
path off to the side by a small
stone wall. We hunch down
behind a bush, listen for older
girls to pass us, telling each other
their stories and talking
about boys.
We always plan to scare them,
but at the last minute hold
our breath instead.
As soon as they pass
you get nervous. They came late
today and you break through
the weeds first, hurrying to get home.
I stop for a moment, and hear a voice ~
he was watching, and makes you
promise to never say anything
to anyone for seeing him standing
there. He was watching
and I don't know if he saw me too,
but you cry, he pushes your head
to the side and makes you
promise again. I wait for someone
else to come, for you to say my name,
but he leaves you standing
with snot dripping from your nose,
did he hurt you?

but you say nothing.


tracy lynn
1993

[pinerow]

1. Dang...

This is a bit troubling...you evoke a storm of emotions...

[JitterbugPerfume]

2. that is disturbing

I only hope it is not a true life experience

[KaliTracy]

4. well, there might be some "poetic" license in what is created.... or

sometimes not....

[oneighty]

3. Sigh

Very scary. I have traveled a similar path. Long time ago.

180

[Steel City Slim]

5. Whew!