The red lights shone through the misery
of blackness conquering the sky.
The buzz of shrill and eager voices hung in the air,
overtaking the mist that seemed to forbiddingly dwell.

The firefighter cradled her in his concealed arms,
with her slim, sun kissed legs dangling.
They swayed fragilely with his bouncing steps,
but moved so harshly from the nonexistent wind.

Her tears of fearful anticipation and booming sobs compensated
for the accompanying rain that the skies should have released.
Even in misery,
her undeserving beauty wouldn’t cease.

Yet, I couldn’t hate her in that moment
for what I didn’t have.
Couldn’t make myself think
of the words she’d said.

I felt my heart fill with an aching desire
to help this girl I couldn’t stand.
I didn’t know why I felt pity for someone
who would never return the gesture.

I couldn’t help the emotions
that overcame me.
Couldn’t help the way
I am.

This girl who scarred me was hurt
in ways I’ve never had to feel.
My brain perpetually hoarded painful memories
she would never be able to understand.

Yet, I still ponder this emotion
I’ve never been able to comprehend.
Its twisted confusion
and contradicting demands.

I watched as the firefighter
carried her away.
The mist trying to hide it all,
but those piercing red lights showing their way.

They disappeared into the crowd of people,
the dark, malice sky failing to do its job.
My heart continued to feel heavy,
a silent, sympathetic sob.