I should've taken pictures.
Of the bruises from before
Instead, I watched them heal and fade
And stayed to take on more
I should've left after that fight.
When you slammed me onto the floor
Instead, I listened to your lies
And stayed to hear some more
I should've believed my friends.
The ones who told the truth
Instead, I called them traitors
And left them all for you
I should've stood my ground.
The day you threatened to leave
Instead, I stayed beside you
While your acts made me bleed
I should've told the truth.
When the neighbors called the cops
Instead, I lied for loyalty
I thought it would make you stop
I should've left with my friends.
When they found us after we'd moved
Instead, I made them leave
My thoughts fixed on your mood
I should've realized sooner.
That I was following all your rules
And still receiving scars
My back all black and blue
I gave up every freedom
To feel, think, and speak
And when I tried without permission
My blood dripped into the sink
Of all the things I should've done
in all the years ahead,
The night you helped me
sneak out the house,
I should've stayed in bed.
Comments