For years my secret kept like a good boy scout.
He’s a talker. Drugs, drink kept me quiet. Grief filled.
Talked me into showing my scarred heart.
For money. Fed me beer and gin. Grooming begins.
Playing “Truth and Drink” with gin shots at ten.
Alcohol with my cop friend, I’m flying high.
Alcohol and a badge raped me.
At twelve, I was screaming stop—stop—stop.
Man-child incited. When does the screaming stop?
Barred from preying on one more child. Cop screamed—stop.
Stabbed non-stop. Blood red rage drips on the floorboards.
Relived the anguish in court—tears tumbling like a child.
Courtroom wept and applauded. Served my time.
For years my secret kept like a good boy scout.
MD Bier is a binge reader who always has a book or camera in hand. Her writing reflects her passion for social change and social issues. She is an MFA candidate at William Paterson University, participates in several writing communities where she writes and studies. Her work has been published in various literary journals. MD Bier resides in NJ with her family and dog where she enjoys gardening and walking.
