A Disappearing Act

Resentful of the rental store

Dismissed for stealing videos and Butterkist

You crossed the road

And called me from a pay-phone

Sixteen candles, five foot nine

Struck matches on the bins behind the cinema

I felt your eyelash

Brush across my cheekbones

Your lashes brushed my cheekbones

And the shadows swim

Across our abdomens

As our bodies twist

Behind the multiplex

And the stars turn black

A disappearing act

We watched as it went up in flames

And gathered reels of burning tape

Just modern teenage parlour games

Revenge can leave a bitter taste

But petulance is charming

And I can be so charming

Complete the form in ballpoint pen

Your name, address, provide consent

Did you come alone or bring a friend?

He stopped replying to my texts

They'll call you when they're ready

And the shadows swim

Across our abdomens

As our bodies twist

Behind the multiplex

And the stars turn black

A disappearing act