I step out on to the field.
Every eye is on me.
Watching.
Waiting for me to slip.
I won't.
Not this time.
I march out in perfect step, relishing every ache that jolts my body.
It reminds me that I'm here.
It reminds me I'm alive.
As I come to a halt and put that cold metal to my lips
I smile at all the pretty faces.