You always pick at your nails when you’re anxious. It should be an annoying habit, but is rhythmic and entrancing. How often do you make yourself bleed? Do you hide scars from other wounds? Or are your scars on your heart? If I peered within your chest, would I find a map of all your heartbreaks?
Your eyes hold weight too heavy for someone so regal and refined. Or perhaps that is the secret you your allure.
You startle to collect your belongings from the café table and hurry to exit the shop. I wasn’t ready to let you go. Would you be safe getting to your next location? Or would some malice befall you in your haste? You erratically pack your bag and check the time. Who are you meeting in such a rush? A boss? A lover? You’re too distracted to pay enough attention to the danger of the world around you. A treasure like you should be protected. I have no choice but to follow you, for nothing more than to ensure your safety. What if you met a stranger that stole your eyes? Would you save your broken beating heart for me? I should keep it safe for you.
I casually stride to the door, holding it open. I will always hold it open for you. You smell like cinnamon and orange, spicy and sharp.
“Thanks”. Such a soft and decadent voice.
You don’t meet my eyes, but pour yourself on the street and into the rain. You didn’t prepare yourself for the weather. You’ll pain your clear skin in the cold. I offer the umbrella by the door. I wish it was mine, so you’d carry some of me with you.
“Take it.” My harsh tone startles you.
You finally give me your eyes. Clear onyx jewels fill my vision. I can taste your tears in my mind’s eye.
My tell tale heart beats against it’s care.
“Are you sure?”
I nod. I am nothing but sure for you.
You push past me and I let you disappear into the haze and crowd of the city center. I contain my beast, who would chase and cage you in my arms.
I’ll meet you soon.
---
It’s still raining. You’re huddled under a single lamp, drowning in the emptiness of the small room. Not even a TV glow keeps your company. Red rims line my favorite black gems, storing the memories of all the tears I watched you shed for hours.
You finally fall asleep. Exhausted from the toil your heart wears. I step into the space and shield your resting body with mine. I run my thumb through the tracks on your cheeks. Your breath shudders around a whimper at my touch. My soul purrs at the connection between us. Perfect soulmates.
The discarded tea cup tells me you won’t wake any time soon. The sedative will let enough of your senses through. You know I’m here. You know I’ll keep your heart safe from any more scars.
Another crystal tear drops from the wide polished jewel.
“No fear. I’m here.” I soothe and wipe away two more drops.
I set up my tools. I’ve perfected the procedure for collecting such treasures. I start with the onyx gems, knowing they require the most finesse. Careful not to scratch or nick, I stretch back the flimsy covers. Unfit to protect the beauties behind them. Light suction and constant firm pressure loosens them from their cups. With the last snip of their threads, I place the jewels into plush boxes. Much more appropriate vessels that match their splendor.
Now for the most important task.
I replace the gentle tools for more robust clamps and saws. Perfect companions for the strong bearing crown that’s been so abused in it’s short time. Cracks and pops accompany the rhythm of my own heart in delicious symphony. Elixir falls to the ground in spurts and pumps, rejoicing with it’s new protector. I polish the crowning treasure and am pleased to find it spared from jagged scars and wounds. I situate her in a crystal case, shining under the lone floor.
I have you safe now. I guard you like my own. Till time ceases to spin.
I leave the husk behind and reach my collection. Opening the rich wood cabinet that keeps my treasures safe from prying eyes and undeserving hands. No longer at risk of being damaged by lesser beings.
My collection is complete. I can rest knowing a vow has been fulfilled.
---
The rain has started again. Another treasure needs protecting. I vow to find and guard it like my own.