When the Price Is Right

When the Price Is Right

I sell my body when the price is right

not for love

not for pity

not for anyone’s sweet salvation

I don’t fake shame

don’t dress it up in stories

don’t claim I was forced

I walk in heels with my eyes wide open

cash in hand

lips painted

heart locked

Don’t mistake my silence for sorrow

Don’t mistake my smile for surrender

I know exactly what I’m worth

and I never go cheap

You think I’m broken

I’m not

I’m practical

cold when I need to be

warm enough to earn what I need

I don’t pray

I don’t dream

I don’t hope for rescue

My prayers have teeth

my dreams pay bills

I’ve seen what hope costs women like me

Call me what you want

just spell it right when you leave the money

I don’t bleed for free

and I don’t answer to anyone

but me, relax and enjoy the ride

This is just a Poem not about me the writer or my life.