“That’s a good question…”

What did you feel compelled to answer?

The truth? Did shame spur you? Did truth spurn you?

Had you deconstructed your flimsy self?

Did you ponder praise? Secretly pray

For misinterpretation? For reinvigoration?

I heard you trail off

Next breath building sharply in lungs ballooned

Heartbeat both stopped and pounding

Brain barely able to repeat

That little question.