V: Red

I am painting my nails red
Which smudges, like I've raked smooth skin
and drawn blood.
Too long, but I've lost the nail clippers
trying to write without
smudging further
Take a picture, call it art,
call it memories.

I am painting my nails red
While West-Side Story plays in the kitchen
Red nails go with red smeared lipstick
on a collar? not mine, anyway
heartbeat 1-2-3
After all, I'm wearing a low cut top
shhh, trying to sleep
crying to sleep.

I am painting my nails red
My lips,
stilletos,
My skin a lighter, diluted shade, pink even
When you touch me
Anticipate painting the town red
without you.