Erinna

For the days spent, you and I, growing closer as we grew, like the vines that dance around the elm. For your mane in my claws, as I braided it every morning, as an excuse to breathe in your scent. For the daisies you pinned to your horns, that matched the yellow of your eyes. For did he pause, to take in the sight, like the sun as it dips below hills? For you, Baucis, are Endlessly beautiful, painfully distant. Forever for me. For always, for me.

And for the first bruise, purple on your heart, that he wasn't gentle enough with your soul. And I held you with soft hands, and we limped along, until you were healed enough to run. And you outran even I, as you raced for someone to keep beside you. And many fell short, but another- he came. And you fell in step beside him. And you fell away from me. And you fell hard again.

But none can run and never stop, none can keep that pace. But I would stay beside you, no matter how fast or slow you deign. But we could stay as tortoise or hare, and I would always be tied to you. But you chose them every time, forgetting me, your lost friend. But, you tell me, they give you nests, and purpose with every egg. But, you tell me, they give you things, like jewels and silk.

My friend, is this the price of your happiness? My sister of no blood to me, a love than runs deeper than he could ever give. My heart breaks every time your back turns to me, and you walk to the arms of another. My heavy wings can fly no more, and I miss you with every step. My distance from you, carrying the love I'll never have, a weight too heavy to bear alone. My future will find someone to share that load. My friend, you'll be too long behind.

By DetectivePopcorn