I have turned away the lantern-light of others,
their hands outstretched, their lips so near.
Whispers offered warmth,
but I closed my throat,
for you,
the ghost I cradle in my chest.

How many nights have I watched the sea,
let the tide gnaw at my heart like hunger,
while men with eager smiles
were left to drift away?
I swore myself to you-
a vow carved deeper than bone-
yet the silence you leave
splits me like a stormed mast.

I gave up laughter,
traded fleeting joy for the hope of you,
believing your eyes might one day
burn the dark from mine.
But the seasons pass-
their colors muted,
their feasts cold-
and I am left to sip sorrow alone.

Tell me, love,
does your heart know the price I've paid?
Every kiss denied,
every chance for comfort strangled,
all for a promise I clutch
like a dying flame.

I am loyal, yes-
but lonely too.
And in the hollow of that truth,
I ache.

Penned by my hand on the 5th of Chronos, in the year 983 AF.