Nicotine

If you’re feeling guilty

just don’t, please don’t

because I’m guilty too

for exaggerating any expressions

over why you are so full of smoke.

I am in need of cleansing

a stagnant dust inside the powering walls

of hurt and betrayal

A world away from these throbbing conditions

or the trails of many ashes concealed within them.

It’s a mindless submission

into scars of rationale and feelings

fighting to pile up their selfish empires.

It’s in your eyes

in all that doesn’t escape your lips

it’s in the oxygen that is forever lost

for a killing you so badly want

A future contract unfurling

in every puff you take

eating the present in installments …