A LIE

Jealousy, fear and insecurity

Manifest at the most unlikely time-

As I am about to step into my bath,

Smell a perfume

That I know does not belong to me

So – I smoke a cigarette

Enjoy the deep satisfaction

Of inhalation

When my husband comes home

The smell of smoke still lingers

‘Honey, have you been smoking?’

‘I don’t smoke.’ I reply, quietly.

Unplug the bath,

watch the water drain...

After all, one lie deserves another.