her heart changes as quickly and easily

as clothes. she slips a hand between

her third and fourth ribs, one smooth

fluid motion, replaces the warm mass

before it beats again. now bright and

laughing, now quiet dignity, now a

fiery blaze screaming voice hoarse

until someone listens. now cold and

dark and icy, a shield between fragile

blood and harsh air. she pairs dagger

heels and black jacket with a heart of

diamonds and pearls, matches slippers

and soft pajamas with a plush heart

that smells like lavender. shelves lined

full for every occasion.