The Gift

The emotions we disguise for family and friends.

You handed me your secrets-
All wrapped up in polka-dotted paper-
A little bow on top,
To deceive my mind, make me think,
"She's doing all right."

But after you leave, I
Unwrap the neatly folded paper,
Peering into the glowing green eyes of
The monstrous little secret.

It bares its teeth, clawing and snappin,
Hoping to rip me to shreds.
This vicious, little secret
The size of a skyscraper,
Will tear you apart on its own.

You so kindly handed me a present,
All your poisoned pain and
Deep-set scarlet lies.

I notice something different in your eyes,
Now glowing green where ocean blue once hid.
You aren't yourself because you never
Even asked-
What about MY secret life?