Your dark outlined figure follows me everywhere

And yet, I only see you when there is light.

Your outline appears smaller and rounder on top,

Slimming for a hint,

then wide and robust in the middle.

Your end completes itself with two scrawny sticks that move.

Every move you make mimics mine.

Raised arm, raised arm.

Right leg steps first, right leg steps first.

Step by step we walk together everywhere.

Your dark flexible movement causes my skin to heat up

And my blood pressure to rise.

Every move I make I can feel every bounce

Of my body.

Your reflection keeps mocking, but without the physical feels.

Your outline doesn’t feel each jiggle

As a desperation, a cry for help, or even pure resentment.

You don’t know how to think or feel.

I do.

You are just my shadow.

Keep moving, but don’t stare,

Just walk with me step by step.

-B