⠀⠀’denial is the first stage,’ distorted vowels, doused in amalgamation of rotted honey / faux saccharine empathy; pad of thumb flush to pallid cheek til gritted ivories are felt beneath. ‘then anger, bargaining..’
cease this persistence.
( words spat sharp and cold, dull hues adverting to the side. thin coat of sweat makes his forehead to glimmer, soft panting filling the room as familiar—yet not welcomed touch reaches him. )