The Writers' Circle

Over the counter
(OTC)
you say the name
in the pharmacy,
remembering to pretend to her
(focusing with effort through the blur
and smiling, trying your very best
to ignore the tightness in your chest)
that you and he are not the same -
 
he: the junkie desperate for more...
No - you get your high in a respectable way
(he uses the street while you use the store).
Oh - time to find your purse and pay.
Count out the coins to buy your reality-freeze
'Would you like a bag?' - 'Yes, please';
Your chemical treasure you calmly seize
as you tell her 'Thanks' and walk away,
while in your mind you sadly say
another bag; another day.