Swimmingly well

go the conversations

I craft in the shower.

I am charming and bright,

dip my eyes just so

to show I’m humble yet competent.

After careful consideration

The shower gel offers me the job

with extra pay.

While I rinse out the conditioner

The loofah makes a better offer

throwing in free lunches and summer hours.

Next I regale my hairbrush

with tales of adapting to fast-moving environments

While slouching on my bed in a towel.

As I whip my hair in artificial wind

I whisper up a stirring tale

about my will to win.

Phone buzz.

Wind off.

Quick thumb to check.

“Regretfully,”

I throw my phone

across the bed.

If not swimmingly I at least didn’t drown

I had thought, played my fumbles with charm,

dipped my eyes to hide my need.

Situation, Task, Action, Result.

I open my underwear drawer

And clear my throat.

Sara Orvokki (she/her) has a BA in English Literature & Creative Writing from the University of Warwick and lives and works in London. Her work has previously been published in Genrepunk Magazine, FGRLS CLUB and Inklette.