The Fortress

A fortress built around your heart—

stone laid from old betrayals,

walls raised higher with every almost-love

that taught you not to lean too hard.

You call it strength.

I see how lonely it gets up there,

guarding something that only ever wanted

to be held.

I don’t want to tear it down.

I know those walls saved you once.

I’d rather sit outside them,

patient, unarmed,

hoping one day you’ll open a gate

and realize not everyone

came to lay siege.