Small town church, Coal Center, Pennsylvania
She sat on Bride's side  

I sat across and behind  

Bleach white tendrils
slithered 
down
her back
a limp death crawl
to her waist  

55, 56 or older  

The black back of bodice, 
cut and slashed
Peep show curtain
for dragon tattoos  

Full-length black opera gloves
Covered her arms
Factory worker’s fingers bared  

A rhinestone cuff’s
glittering width
rested on pew
prayer books pressed into knees  

My eyes should be on the bride
As she vows
To honor and obey  

I can’t keep my eyes off
The lady in black  

Stoned out and
nodding
a basement steps smile  

Stealing the light from the bride

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