It’s Slow Burn. It’s tedious trust turning into certain loyalty.
It’s deals made in desperation becoming unbreakable bonds.
It’s noticing, focusing, the subtle shift of light in their eyes, the shifting wrinkles that show in different smiles.
It’s bearing the sting to taste fleeting sweetness.
It’s careful words and cautious actions despite the ticking clock.
It’s holding back a hand to save their suffering.
It’s watching as the pain works its way through their bones.
It’s knowing that the smile you wish to give them, the kind words, would only lead to anguish.
It’s finding other ways to love them.
It’s endlessly searching for ways to relieve their agony and give them the adoration they deserve.
May it take days, or months, or decades. You’ll keep your devotion in a bottomless jar hoping someday they will drink from it, greedily, happily, sore throat eased from your efforts.
