A Thing Your Body Does After

I woke up to echoes, strange whispers in the dark,

a body buzzing, recalling yesterday’s fight,

like an old film reel replaying each stark

scene of struggle, skin pulled too tight.

Last night’s choices linger, a song on repeat,

reminders that I don’t listen well,

as the silence surrounds, my heart skips a beat,

with each breath reminding—there's more to dispel.