Death in Stages - Reflection

*second in a series of three for Shem Rider (Thorne the Red)  
 
 
We chased each other through topics  
and found common ground.  
You opened up to me,  
challenging me to do the same.  
By the soft light of the moon  
I unveiled myself  
a layer at a time  
until I was bare  
down to my soul.  
Surrendering myself  
to your judgement.  
Still you said I was beautiful.  
Where others bothered only to look  
as far as electric blue eyes  
and soft skin,  
you paused long enough  
to see to my core.  
Fell headlong  
to the deepest parts  
of my hidden mind  
where my secrets await  
under lock and key.  
You allowed me to be open,  
held each moment,  
accepted every flaw.  
And still you said I was beautiful,  
all the while laughing to yourself  
because I could not see it.  
I have never felt more myself,  
more free  
so unafraid.  
Gratitude,  
love,  
a safe place for your heart  
is all I gave you in return.  
Every word you wrote  
was full of love  
and wrapped around me.  
Comfort from a true friend.  
The closest I will ever have  
to a promised embrace  
we never had the chance to share.