Stained Breath

Trigger Warning:
This poem contains themes of toxic relationships, manipulation, emotional abuse, and references to suicidal threats. Please read with care.

I am too alive to die, 
But too dead to live
Meeting you was a slow burn,
Like a burn given by cig.

Started with breaking friendships,
And then you hated to see—
simple dinners with family,
Me just trying to be.

"I want you to myself" 
"You don't give me enough time" 
"I'll kill myself if you ignore." 
"You better stay in line." 

I didnt want anyone to hurt,
So I always complied.
You quoted this was love,
And I believed ur lies.

It has become the past now,
And I know it wasnt love.
But the bitter taste still lingers
And it stays like ash in my lungs.