Waking Up

She washed away the stale taste of alcohol

with toothpaste and mouthwash.

She smothered her lips with lip balm

and wore scarfs “for the cold”

with makeup to conceal her eyebags.

But it was just that: cover up.

The memories couldn’t be hidden;

her mind whirled with their dancing,

her body clung to his scent of cigarettes,

their conversations followed her.

Her eyes drooped and, behind them,

the scenes were replayed.

And no toothpaste, mouthwash,

lip balm, scarves or make up

could take those away.