there is frost on
my window
when i wake
and my body aches.

i pull on a coat
over my clothes
and my father's
old scarf.
it keeps me warm,
inside
and out.

snow lines the roads
to school.
my nose feels the
chill in the air
as i walk through the
iron gates.

what awaits me today?

but the day passes in a blur
all sounds around me
don't make it into my
conscience.
i escape to the bathroom
at break
finally alone
(with my thoughts)

my stomach still aches
with bruises
knees still sting
head constantly throbbing
but i'm used to it now.

voices enter the bathroom
i slow my breathing
keep still
and quiet.
it feels like hours
until they're gone
again.

leaving me alone.
again.