A fastened certainty

The sharp click of the buckle,

plastic hard against plastic,

a final sound, a small knuckle

locking in place. So mechanistic,

so everyday. But today it caught me.

That familiar thud, the pressure

across my chest, securing me.

A sudden, heavy, measured treasure.

Or a trap. This dull grey strap,

made to save, but feels like it binds.

Another journey, on this map,

leaving something else behind.

The engine starts, a low rumble.

I'm in it now, for the ride.

No turning back, no way to fumble

my way out, with nothing to hide.