Artist + Writer
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Short Sharp Shot magazine
IT’S YOUR KIND S
Scars for each day…
Moments into my thoughts, he walked into the bathroom.
Worth, esteem; gone…
“Why is dinner taking so long?”
Together, but undone…
“I'm sor—”
****
Before my heavy mouth could complete the ever so familiar sentence, I felt my head in his hand; my forehead hit against the mirror and I heard it crack as many times as my spirit did...
I cherish the hour I usually have to myself before he comes home; to gather myself and to prepare. “You are home late.” It was the unusual gentleness in his voice that stopped me in my steps.
**** Half a decade later, I got an hour to myself; to gather, to prepare and to say, “Useless man, it's your kind they leave.” This flesh will no longer know your scars and these thick thighs will no longer know your force.
“I'm sorry.” I was always sorry; even when I had a valid explanation. He was still talking as I walked into the bedroom. “It's your kind they beat; women who behave foolishly. You think you can come into MY house at any time you like?
His breath was warm on my neck and his palm met my cheek in a clout that startled me up from my sleep. “Who did you leave that blood for? Clean up your mess!”
It was 5:13 P.M. It is not my kind that is beaten. Is it we who are seen outside well poised, wellspoken and well dressed, that are beaten?
****
I took a long look in the mirror before I washed layers of make-up that hid the scars and his ancient words rung in my head, “In this marriage, you say 'not my will, but yours be done.'”
It is his kind they leave, but a girl can only dream. Writer: Sangjat Hauwa Machunga currently works with a Non-Governmental Organization in Nigeria. She holds a BSc in Psychology. She has worked as a Treatment and Support Specialist/Counsellor for people living with HIV/AIDS and as a teacher, amongst other things. She is also a freelance writer and runs a small business.
Artist: Ifeanyichukwu P. Nwachukwu was born and raised mainly in Lagos state, Nigeria. He studied Fine Art and then majored in Graphics Design. A graduate of Yaba College of Technology, he is currently a photographer, graphic designer, illustrator and painter who runs a freelance creative household called Feather Impulse. @keenflashb Feather Impulse featherimpulse@gmail.com +2349097761072
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Crossshot