The Mule's Burden

Fragile thoughts crystallize over an empty bottle
A drumming pain where thumbs meet temple
Whispers of guilt crescendo into aching waves
Silent pleas of a return to a time that was simple

I forgive you
Words that could've wrapped you in a warm embrace
Softened the sting of years of resentment and mistrust
Rebuilt a foundation that withstood heartbreak and loss
A farewell that could have saved both of us

But no
Instead I am left marinating in regrets
Shouldering the pain of what you wrought
Mistakes that you brought into a garden of paradise
Visions of roses perhaps, a reality it was not

Was it pride that sewed my lips together
Or petty pleasure that exchanged my breath for retribution
A currency that could have bought all of the world's richest treasures
Now just heaps of ash born of a weak constitution

We deserved better
Why does the sweet taste of lead leave such a bitter hole
Why did I choke on pride, but now easily swallow dread
What is the value we put on our priceless bond
I would pay it back tenfold just to have you instead

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