stop here.
let me go to bed
in peace, alone and fully dressed.
don't stand close by
don't touch me
cast your eyes away
before I blind you.

don't tell me you want me
don't tell me I'm beautiful
I don't want to be a turn-on
I still sleep with all the lights on.

there is a truth here you're obscuring
when you tell me I'm alluring

wait here.
no hands shall cross the line
to fumble, fondle, feel and find
any part of me, outside or in.

leave here.
don't kiss me goodnight
don't hold me too tight
don't rhapsodize, imply or pry;
I'm not open tonight.
close the door, exit right,
turn your back, get out of sight.

© Jess Zelhart, 2004. Thou shalt not steal.