VAINLY PREOCCUPEYED

by Sherry S.   

My right eyelid
grew its own lid,
and provided
I don’t lift it

to expose
what’s underneath,
the bump that rose
red will stay sheathed

for now, at least.
Not far beneath
I flash front teeth
while talking to you

to distract you,
and I hope you
will not notice
my not blinking

while I’m thinking,
trying to hide my
extra lid, pre-
occupied by
vanity. Sty?

No, it's P.
My smoother side
now turned your way,
I ask at last,
“What did you say?”

*****