You walked into class two minutes late.
I noticed immediately; you were freshly shaved.
From the top of your sideburns all the way down. You had a baby face.
You looked the same as the day we met, back in the sixth grade, when we were full of optimism.

My reflection swallows round my eyes like twisted hair beads and pink oil
while the mirror leaks a frightening truth
that I go mad to.
I hold the wishing in my fingers
drenched in castor, tea tree, and peppermint
my scalp only blooms red

Blondes are
Stupid
Popular
Ditsy
Un-athletic
Girly girls
Blonde is a label
Look at my personality
Look past my hair
Blonde is not me
I am
Smart
Athletic
Messy
Helpful
Nice
Labels are unfair