Dust all day, her bruises were untouched. No suspect fled the scene. No fingerprints to tell them how much you knew of me. How could you be unclean? You kept your dress so perfect, draped below your knees, a hemmed kiss on ivory. Come to bed now. You won't see him again. He won't love you. Not like I do.

You know it hurts me so, to touch you from a distance. Where were you last night? I saw his lights were off. I'll catch you in the driveway. I'll lock you in your room. I'll clasp your precious letters and wish this all ends soon. How sweet you lie (down). How coy you play (dead). You've fall'n too far to walk away. Your face turned cold to kiss him with blue lips.

As I wake with a scream I feel you there lying next to me. Nightmares pursuing me as I bend down to touch your auburn hair, now matted with blood.