I look weird. Everyone thinks I look weird.

Who would want to talk to this awkward mess? No one would.

I can’t breathe. Do they know I can’t breathe?

Self-conscious thoughts wash over me;

I’m sinking under a current of panic,

Fighting to keep my head above water.

Drip. Drip. Drip.

DROP.

My skin slick with sweat. 

Thump. Thump. Thump.

THUD. 

My heart pounds with worry.

My mouth parts open, as I search for words that I cannot find.

My eyes cast downward, as I avoid eye contact that I do not want.

My fingers twitch, as I feel for an exit that I will not know.

Splish, splash. Glub, glub.

Silence.