I have never seen your face
But you lurk in pools of darkness
In parking lots, empty corridors
Down alleyways, up stairs,
Behind unopened doors
As I make my way home.

I do not know your name
Your build, or the colour
Of your skin or hair.
I know that you are male
And you have the power to terrify me
With unspoken intent.

I turn the key in the latch
Pretend to be on the phone
Turn on all the lights at once
Open every door.
Exhale.
I am home.