i'd lap up an apology like it was saccharine nectar. i beg for my self-worth to be untied, unscrambled, unknotted from perceptions of strangers and eyes, that linger and push inward, scorching my skin. Lo i remain, pensive and fickle begging to be your humble, healing servant. Please let me help you. Please let me save you. I'll dash my own bandages from my wounds just to set yours. Tell me where it hurts. I tell you to not think of me, i'm not worthy of the thought.