caught in the in between

There’s that invisible barrier between the two of us.  You’re in an alternate reality.  Saying words that aren’t yours, doing things are that aren’t you. 

I can see it in your eyes.  You’re not who you were twenty-three seconds ago.  You’ve erected the barrier and slipped away.  Your shoulders are bent differently.  Your mouth twitches a little bit.  I can see you looking toward me.  The lights catch the sparkle of your teeth.  Your shoes squeak against the wooden floor.  The music starts.  I’m hardly breathing.  You’re still looking toward me.

Don’t. 

Don’t break it.  Don’t break the fourth wall.