I swallowed truth like bitter wine,

It burnt my throat, but tasted fine.

Each lie-a note I dared to hum,

A velvet tune that left me numb.

My voice was veiled in sugar lace,

But trembled in the silent space.

The guilt grew roots behind my eyes,

A quiet storm I can’t disguise.

Your name-once soft as cello strings-

Now clangs like bells that shame me, rings.

I meant to mean, but played pretend,

And turned my love to suit the end.

So here’s my hymn: one cracked refrain,

A rusted song of truth and stain.

Forgive the chords I failed to play-

I’m out of tune, but meant to stay.