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Aching Jaws
January 3, 2026
Aching Jaws.
Tense.
A smile that isn’t mine
Wrapped over my face.
Like clingwrap.
What once seemed beautiful
Has melted away.
Why is
Baring your teeth
A sign of joy
And welcome.
I feel anything,
But welcoming.
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I'm not against smiling. Let me make that clear. But joy should never be forced.