I hope they'll think of me
as I will of them.

That I'll be a painful
yet cherished memory,
one that they'll carry with them
as they find new love,
and go on to accomplish
great things.

Perhaps I'll still be
considered one of
their loved ones,
as they always will be
one of mine.

I hope they'll think of me
from time to time,
and smile.

I stand guard at all times —
protecting a bruised and
bloodied essence,
tending old wounds and
keeping new at bay.

I'm a petal-armoured sentinel,
made mighty only by
inevitability and arrogance,
my lance trembling in my hands.

I remember every word you say —
so I beg of you, do not be hurtful.
Speak only your truth,
and let me down as gently as you can
when the time comes.

I will forever carry you with me,
another mark on the tally
of existing as a soft-hearted fool,
a cowardly warrior.