I woke today
with a new
little whole

a tiny gape
that sat like
a tuppenence
on my chest

but instead
of a head
there’s a
question mark

it’s replaced
that familiar ache
I had hoarded

the one that
flared at 00.01
and knew what
to make of me

but this coin
though smaller
is sharper
precise like an answer

I woke today
with a start
because that little
tuppence had melted

and covered me
from my blood-blistered
feet to my
thinning scalp

it sits there
now
mixed with my
skin

for the eyes
of the walls
to enjoy

I’d happily
take your ache
back and carry
it with me forever

I’ve looked for it
in all the places
we hid

though I’m sure
now
it has 
gone