Inside

I thought I could hear her screaming.
Until the night swallowed her howls and spit them into my eyes,
forcing me to see, I denied it.
I see, I have to,
her outstretched arms,
reaching,
empty.
I do not sacrifice myself by grabbing hold.
I am not cruel, only learned.
I've tried to save her, pull her in,
so many times.
Her fear is too great,
she beats wildly against my hands then
pulls me under as well.
When I think I'll drown, she kicks away
and I float slowly back to the surface.
Yet still,
she screams, voice
sharp and scared, eyes wet, she begs
"Please."
I do not answer. I can't.
I knew her before we were condemned to this place.
Before she forgot, and now
I can't forget.
She was so lovely.
Now,
this,
I have to see.