Read Poem: To be a Woman, by Megan Phillips

She looks pretty.

Why does he keep staring at me?

Her friend has walked off.

Where has she gone?

I might offer to buy her a drink.

I hope he doesn’t offer to buy me a drink.

She can’t say no then.

How will I say no?

She’ll owe me.

Maybe I should just look away.

Why is she not smiling back?

I’ll get my phone out – try to look busy.

Does she think she’s too good for me?

Maybe I should just leave?

I’m going over.

My phone only has one percent; I need to leave quick.

Where’s she going?

I don’t know where I’m going.

The roads are quiet along here.

The roads are quiet along here.

It’s dark.

It’s dark.

I’m getting closer.

He’s getting close.

Close enough to touch.

…