The dreams, I dream

My feet red raw and blistered
no socks on my feet
too big shoes scuff my ankles,
blistered toes
wrapped in scraps and rags,
dirty
I cannot sit for long-
waiting for him to come in
and then I will be in trouble if caught
he does not like us sitting
not doing anything
no time for rest
or even a drink-
so thirsty
tired
I see the little girl
that comes in with him
every now and then
pretty dresses
curly hair
red rosy cheeks
ankle socks with little bows
patent shoes
she gives me sweets
when he isn’t looking
brightly wrapped
paper-
sugary sweet
creamy centres
I bite a little-to make them last
and when I get to close
my eyes,
I dream I am the little girl