You could never see
past the reflection
into the eyes
that saw no horror,
vision less than anatomical,
sight through the soul
where breath becomes linked,
one with what moves within,
undiminished by the lie
of flesh's without

Hiding from the light
like a monster beneath
deception-lined cloak,
uncertainty and mistrust
as constant companions,
the deceivers, devourers
of the sunshine offered,
the real enemies
with you playing martyr
to their skillful deceit

So binding the chokehold
you remain looking-glass captive,
trapped beneath the weight
of uneasy stares,
disbelieving kiss returned
when masks are removed,
nightmare revealed,
faith in feelings
falls short, traps both --
hostages to the child inside
who screams in agony,
sobs beneath moonlight,
caged by inability
to risk rejection,
reflection
of something less than
love that lives in darkness

Fear of the face
which could sink
a thousand ships,
mirror-etched malady,
slave to your own warden
who denies parole
from the curse,
imprisons all,
swallows the key

You could never see
past the reflection
into the eyes
that saw no horror

...for beauty so loved her beast