Your words rush forward
A tangled web of bitter wounds
attempting to ensnare me with pity

A precisely calculated labyrinth
Willing me to make my move

“It’s All or Nothing” you command
Imploring me with red-rimmed eyes
lips trembling in fear

You know I’ve no interest in games
but challenge me and I’ll surely win

I’ve warned you countless times
I won’t surrender my autonomy
So you should know my next play
Know your rancor will never triumph

But in desperation you contrive
to guilt me into your ideal
A hopelessly devoted queen
atop a pretty pedestal

But I don’t need to be needed

So I will play my final hand
My answer to your pitiful command
is, “Nothing”