I used to lie to try to please, to win their sad favor

Become what they wanted – pick your poison flavor

Or if they were lost, I’d become their loving savior

Cruel desire, desperation, ruled over my behavior

The boys and I would get piss drunk, stupid high

I would spread their leather wings so they could fly

They clipped mine without protest; didn’t dare to try

They took me down and out till I dreamed I’d die

I only ever wanted them to play, to be accepted

To feel like I belonged, to somehow be protected

I took their ridicule, I was the fool, so disconnected

But I thought by pleasing them, I wouldn’t be rejected

I came to learn that demons will pray on the pure

Vampires find their victims with intoxicating lure

Gave up my best blood but they always wanted more

Tried taking my light, the flame they couldn’t ignore

Games people play — don’t get the rules confused

Shame, fear, cruelty as control; fragile egos bruised

Had to walk away, become accuser to free the abused

A man can always refuse to be played; I am not a toy to be used!