The Forgiven

Stepping into the dark, smelly, hallway,
Once more uncertain she should be helping.
Wishing she had the power to make him stay.
The courage to stop her heart from melting.

Her shoes clicked on the bare floor as she walked.
Faces gaping at her from the waiting chairs.
She cringed, knowing they listened as she talked,
Arranging his release. She felt the stares.

Then, she too, began waiting like the rest.
Trying not to listen to the voices.
Feeling her heart beating in her chest.
Knowing she had to start making choices.

Questioning whether he was a friend or foe.
Why she responded each time they would kiss.
The fire was quenched and love couldn't grow.
Leaving would be hard; good times would be missed.

He was deceitful, she knew this was true.
For her own sanity, this must end now!
He didn't care what she had been put through,
Or that he hadn't honored wedding vow.

Every time the door opened, all arose,
Expecting their person to enter in.
Then sank back into chairs, arranging their clothes,
To start the process all over again.

Now he was standing near her, looking sweet.
She forgot how he always did her harm.
Rising slowly she got to her feet,
Rushed to him and was engulfed in his arms..

Sometimes all logic is defied by love.
To deny is simply to waste your time.
Forgiveness is often sent from above,
Although there may be no reason or rhyme.

Once again they step out into the light.
The promise never to cause her pain,
Will be forgotten when there is a fight,
And she will likely forgive him again.

36 Lines
1st Place Winner in Stormu's Poetry