Secrets etched deep in the soul, tattooed on the surface of my heart and soul
Hidden for years, even from myself
The fear locked away, waiting to escape
Just one misspoken word or one careless action unlocks the door
The fear and helplessness overwhelm me
He is miles away, yet here in this room
Waiting, watching, plotting
I feel the heat of his rage
I hear the uneven breathing
He is out of control
There is nowhere left to run
The safest haven, the strongest arms, cannot protect me from a memory
A child cries in the night
A trusted friend betrays
The pain sends her to a safer place, away from her body, away from him
Her soul cries out for help but no one comes
She is all alone and so very small
Her young mind believes the words while her body recognizes the lies
He is in control now, every move pre-planned
She will someday get away, but she will never escape
He will always be there
Waiting, watching, plotting
The safest haven, the strongest arms, cannot protect her from a memory
Three lives forever connected, tied by secrets and fear
4/28/2005
