A throbbing, pounding, at my temples. A deep, muscular ache behind my eyes. The light burns and the sounds deafen. And yet, I am fine.

My collection of medications, all to manage the symptoms, grow as a concerning lack of professionals show any concern. This is fine.

It’s the medication, you say, as if my life should be less comfortable because of my brain. As if I can will myself to overcome....

Once distant, the clacking of the approaching train explodes in one almighty whoosh from the tunnel. It rattles the umbrellas of waiting commuters, a sea of quivering grey fabric wrapped around aluminium skeletons. A platform of freshly styled hair, lightly dampened by drizzle, is knocked out of place.

Nearer the back, a page is fluttered by the wind as a young woman stares deep beyond the small...

For my mom.

The most badass woman I know. You took the stars and put them within my reach.

You are my muse, my inspiration, my best friend.

*** standard unusual disclaimer that I write these while falling asleep so apologies if it falls apart ***

Bones trembling and skeleton cracked,

she stood there as she always had.

Her stature strong as hardened stone,

Yet underneath she bore no bone.

...

“Hi everyone. My name’s Lou.” The crowd mumbled a greeting. Lou took the moment to look up from his feet and around the room.

He gulped.

Thinking about what happened was hard enough. A sting along the thick scar across the back of his head would flair up. Screaming. Yelling.

So to talk about the hazy memories, and in front of others – total strangers. That’s tough. Another gulp. A breath. Eyelin...

Edit: Writer’s note: my melatonin started kicking in about halfway through this so I’m deeply sorry it makes no sense. I can assure you I’m not mad. Just sedated.

“You know what? This was a bad idea.” He huffed, his hand lowering the fork back to his plate. Glancing around, almost desperate, as if on the hunt for backup. Eye contact with the waiter. A scribbling hand gesture. He was serious.

“I...