“As important as air”
“As important as air” you said
After you had found me, weak and trembling on my knees
After you had wiped my tears and gently kissed my forehead
After you had coaxed me out of my shell
After you had brought me back into the light
After you had coated me in a warmth that melted the splinters of ice embedded in my soul
After you had made me laugh and realize my own beauty
After you had swept me up in your arms and taken me away from the pain
“As important as air” you said
Brought back the pain of loss and emptiness
Made my tears wash away any trace of beauty
Took your warmth and in the cold dark nothingness I floated in, the painful shards pierced me again
The light went out and silence followed
I retreated back into the safety of my shell
Email me when Jacqui Bryce publishes or recommends stories