A Lie

Jealousy, fear and insecurity
Manifest at the most unlikely time-
As I am about to step into my bath,
Smell a perfume
That I know does not belong to me
So – I smoke a cigarette
Enjoy the deep satisfaction
Of the inhalation

When my husband comes home
The smell of smoke still lingers
‘Honey, have you been smoking?’
‘I don’t smoke.’ I reply, quietly.
Unplug the bath, watch the water
Drain
After all, one lie deserves another.

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