Emergency Exit

**Verse 1** I’ve been selling scratchcards longer than I loved my ex. Can count petrol by scent. Shift starts at 6, but the shame starts around 4:45. Old men call me *“darlin’"* as if I won’t outlive every one of them on spite and meal deals alone. **Chorus** There’s an emergency exit behind the kiosk with a sign that says “alarm will sound.” I’ve thought about it. Not running — just… walking. Leaving the drawer open and the cabinets unstocked But something keeps me rooted to nothing Maybe it's guilt, it sure ain't the boss **Verse 2** He came in with a busted heel and the kind of jacket that screams: “I’ve been too many places and slept in none of them.” Asked for a lighter and a bottle of wine Said he liked my hair. It was a tired line. But that’s the thing about compliments — they land softer when you don’t expect them. **Chorus** There’s an emergency exit behind the kiosk with a sign that says “alarm will sound.” I’ve thought about it. Not running — just… walking. Leaving the drawer open and the cabinets unstocked But something keeps me rooted to nothing Maybe it's guilt, it sure ain't the boss **Verse 3** He said “you ever think of leaving?” I said “not lately.” But I lied. I leave every shift in my head, just to keep the blood warm. He smiled like he got it. Or like he didn’t care. Either way, he didn’t come back. **Chorus** There’s an emergency exit behind the kiosk with a sign that says “alarm will sound.” I’ve thought about it. Not running — just… walking. Leaving the drawer open and the cabinets unstocked But something keeps me rooted to nothing Maybe it's guilt, it sure ain't the boss **Verse 4** Watched a couple argue through the storefront blinds like they were trying out lines for a fight they hadn’t earned yet. Envy’s a weird drug. If I vanish, go off wire check the laundromat with the broken dryer. I’ve been leaving pieces of myself in spin cycles just to see what comes out uncreased.