• I stare at the candle, the flame sending shadows dancing across my room.
    I look at your face, your eyes holding all the darkness of the world.
    I let out a sigh, and accidentally blow out the candle.
    I feel the darkness envelope us.
    You laugh so loud, that it drowns out my whimper.
    I feel around the table to find your abused lighter, but you grab my hands.
    You hold them so tight it hurts, I can feel your nails digging into my palms.
    I want to yell “mercy!” but I know it wouldn't make a difference.
    You don't know how to let go.
    It's not your fault.
    It's not your fault you drag everyone else into your pain.
    It's not your fault you're afraid.

    I blame myself.