My end result is a

Beautiful full-length dress

that clings to my mymy shape and

sparkles silver stardust

Except for breast cups that annoy me like a clown

          not that they’re meant as arm rests

Useless but reaching out from my tentative body

Plotting puckish charm on the other guests.

          Don’t hug me.  Don’t look at me.

          Don’t ask me to dance.

          I’m beautiful.

To the event, to the tee

Threatening your eyes

My fear that your embrace may

Invert me permanently

The aliens have landed

Huge on my chest under where

my tiny hands wait in my lap.

          You buy the paper and I’ll do the wrapping.

Until the dance I can do without dress.