My Friends Say He’s Toxic

Today I had just enough toothpaste left to brush my teeth,

and Today, he was kind, bubbly, and cheerful.

On the rooftop we shared soft giggles and a tightly rolled joint,

with brick scrapping against our skin,

but it was worth it to see that stupid smile.

Today my shampoo ran out before my conditioner,

and Today, he was agitated, spiteful, and vile.

His words spat like a well-powered nail gun,

destroying my chest, one sharp jab at a time,

but it was worth it to hear his familiar voice.

Today there was enough milk left for my cereal,

and Today he was cool, calm, and collective.

His eyes examined my effortless flower dress

with smirks and flattery making my heart whirl until it became sickly dizzy,

but it was worth it to look into those golden eyes.

Today I couldn’t find my left shoe,

and Today, he was violent, disconnected, and wicked.

He smashed my left foot until it swelled up to the size of a balloon,

bounding the rest of my body to the white tiled floor,

but it was worth it to feel his divine touch.

Today I packed my bag with both zippers closing shut.

And Today he just

sat on the couch with his eyes stapled to me.

I stood at the foot of the front door, gripping my bag until the straps had tears,

but I thought it would be worth it to get one last look.

You see, no one tells you what to do

when love just isn’t enough.

So I walked back inside,

obediently took my seat beside him

and waited for what he’d be like tomorrow.