we hated each other
until we didn’t.
our mutual spite
drifted into respect,
two stubborn selves
forced to intersect.

we took solace
in drinking,
our souls poured
with the wine.
your promise
was irresistible —
so were the signs.

i was nothing
but a mixtape
you played on repeat,
and named me —
claimed me —
as your greatest mistake.

once you stopped the tape,
stripped it to its core,
spilled the ribbon of me
right outside your door.
you forgot my name
quick enough to hurt,
but i still remember
the flames —

and how ferociously
they burned.