It took me by surprise
The way my body stretched and curved
She didn’t even ask for my permission first
Nor warn me of the growing pains
Or growling eyes
Or the car engines slowing
Too near to the curb that my pulse begins quickening
To the rhythm of my clicking heels
I know they are too tall for me to run–the heels and the men
I curse my dress for holding my thighs too tight
For shaping me just right
My attempts to be brave are met with starving hands
That catch me from behind
I don’t even have the time
To look those snarling men in the eyes
The ones who refuse to close their trashing teeth.