by Kache’ Attyana Mumford

Fruit flies linger at the edge of the sink drain, 
Like shadows at dusk, drawn to something unseen, 
Or a lover who hovers just beyond the scent of perfume— 
A presence felt, but never quite touched, 
Whispering in the quiet of the evening. 
A tongue balancing on blades of- 
Freshly brushed teeth, smiling. 
A photo finished moment tapped to a fridge, 
Like the sweetness of stolen moments can cover- 
The stench of uncleaned dishes. 
In the inhales and exhales- 
Truth hits the triangle of decisions. 
Lying is just words with a blindside- 
So fear can live once again.  
Language is just untold wishes- 
And in it, here and now 
I’ll lie once again.

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About the Author:

Kache’ Attyana Mumford is a poet, playwright, drama therapist, and educator. Her work explores Black womanhood, survival, and memory through a blend of lyric storytelling. Her writing has appeared or is forthcoming in literary journals such as Allium, Vermilion, Cathexis Northwest Press, and others.