ugly anxiety

crushing coldness
loudness, boldness

deep dark panic
near satanic

silent screaming
almost dreaming

you aren't crazy
it's not your heart.
it's just a panic attack
tearing you apart

No Offense

You'll pardon
the look on my face
if my heart starts twisting into knots
at your words.
Forgive me
if I look less than pleased
by the stinging insults
and cruel laughter
about my best friend.
Please excuse my sensitivity
I do not mean to overreact
when you fling jokes like stones
at a friend whose hands are bound
so she can not block them.
Sorry
for hating you,
I am sure it is all my fault.
After all, you ended with
"No Offense,"
right?