I want to hold you.
I want to protect you.
I want to caress you,
swearing my eternal presence before you.
I want to say
that nothing will harm you again
but I know that’s probably not true.

I could tell
the first time that I saw you
that you are wise enough
to see the truth
no matter how I present it.

I can’t project you.
You know that.
You know that the world
this cruel and horrid world
will make liars of us all
before letting me defend you
from all attackers.

I can’t stand in front of you
else you become weakened
and less the woman we both love
so I must leave you to your battles
which you’ll win, I am certain,
no matter what you face.

Still
if between the wars you face
I could stand beside you…
I would like that very much.