Paranoia is an allergic reaction
It begins with faith,
then you’re the cult leader—
a snake choking on its venom.

Someone’s been scratching you in your sleep.

You’re losing faith, negotiating with your eyes.
The body’s defenses collapse on each other,
turning their guns inward, firing at shadows.
A smile, a door closed, an engine starting —
Then the sensation spreads, burning through the quiet,
leaving only ash and the echo of something
you can never prove.