Like a Number

We had planned an escape
just like you plan field trips.
We had plastic bags filled with prayers
just like you have fruit stuffed baskets.

We don't say goodbyes like you do
we stare in eyes until cheeks get wet.
We don't hug like you do
we hold each other until there is breath.

We snugged into a car with seatbelts
just like you do on cushioned sofas.
We had mobile phones with camera
just like you to film living moments.

The car moved, counting steps
then it crawled counting shots.

We held hands to play Ring-a-ring o’ roses,
A pocket full of posies, A-tishoo! A-tishoo!
We all fell down, except me.
My fall lasted longer than my voice.

I called for help just like you all do.
I kept breathing like you all do.
I kept crying like you all do.

I died just like a prime number.
while you all were in slumber.