My nemesis glares down,

its gaze boring into my flesh.

Alabaster becomes vermillion.

Hot becomes searing.

Salty sweat soaks my skin –

The only obtainable liquid

cannot quench

my insatiable thirst.

Grains of sand congregate

in my mouth,

on my teeth,

under my tongue.

World’s worst toothpaste.

Roiling, boiling sea

beneath my feet.

Above?

Endless, fiery sky.

On the horizon

salvation glimmers.

Trees, birds, and water

sing a sweet lullaby.

Never closer;

it moves away with each step.

Heartless and tempting,

bitter and hopeless.

Mirage