inside their bellies

this house, here, is protected
by insignificant secrets.

the name of someone you loved
but never told them so.

the number of candy bars you stole as a child
before you were ever caught.

little secrets, scribbled
on little bits of white paper

then folded and tucked away
inside the bellies of dolls

which burden every bookshelf
and every cupboard

in kitchen and in bath
throughout this very house.

each secret is unique and personal;
yet, unclaimed by name, they are all the same.

they are people's hearts
left behind inside the bellies of dolls.