Disposable

I am the echo of a love that never stays, A fleeting warmth in their coldest days. They drink me in like morning light, Then vanish deep into the night. They trace their dreams upon my skin, Whisper forever, then shed me thin. A refuge found when storms arise, But left behind with clearing skies. I am the shoulder, the steady ground, The comfort sought when no one's around. But once their wounds have learned to heal, I become a ghost they barely feel. They take my kindness, take my time, Take my heart like it's not mine. And when their love has had its fill, They leave me empty, quiet, still. I tell myself I’ll build a wall, Not let them in, not let them call. But when love knocks with pleading eyes, I open up—believe the lies. So here I stand, a hollow name, A place to rest, but not to claim. A lesson learned, a story told, Of hands held tight—then left so cold.