As I look at my reflection in the glass,  I see nothing. An empty shell. The other women around me – motionless with vacant eyes. Are they thinking the same thing? Paralyzed from the neck down, I can’t reach out to any of them. The men walk by and stare but rarely even slow their pace before moving on.

Earlier a child tethered to his mother by a harness glanced in and convulsed with a shriek at the sight. The mother laughed then looked directly at me. Her laughter now a whispered “ewww.”

I’ve tried to move my lips. Tried just turning. Nothing. Before every attempt, fear solidifies in my skin and locks me in place with this stupid, boring expression.

It didn’t start out this way. I was all over the place. Looking this way, looking that way. Hair flying around with heels-six-inch-high, palms-to-the-sky energy. Disco lights were in my eyes – in my soul! My heart pounded with bass lines. Glitter flew around and dreaming became reality. Now, it would seem, I’m an absolute waste.

“For the love of God, STOP IT!”

Did … did someone just say something?

(The shelf begins to move and a couple of the others are shifted to the side.)

“You say that every time. Yes, sales have been slow, but I promise we’ll make the rent!”

Oh, I thought it was about me. I guess – AGHHH! What happened to my hair?! Don’t look at me! I’m hideous! Wait, What’s going on?!

Oh. Oooohh. Well look at that! A blonde streak to match this love freak! Guess who’s back in town!

(At this moment the kid on a leash meanders back by and drops a Butterfinger wrapper on the ground. The mom scoops up the child and wrapper then begins to cross the street.)

Yeah, you better get that TRASH out of here! Trashing up my view! Mama’s new wig needs some sun!!