Oh, woe to me. I rue the day I ever met you. An innocent, petite angel, I believed you to be. A victim of hate, having little friends, you took my pity and softened my heart. Little did I realize, the ones who deserted you were no villains or enemies. They became warriors reborn and escaped your icy, life-draining grip.

Even now, I feel your fingertips strain for the warmth radiating from my flesh and body. Your breath a mere inch from the nape of my neck, lips hovering above my contained lifeforce. A vampire determined to drain my sanctity and the nectar coursing through my veins to sate your appetite.

The thought of being left hollow, emotionally fragile and broken, sickens and saddens me. Once I was the fool, ready to compromise any boundaries, all to make a bloodthirsty monster like you happy, sacrificing all that I am to serve your needs, becoming hollow and unrecognizable.

Do you realize the trail of empty vessels you left behind? Are you determined and desperate to ignore the collateral damage in your wake, serving your deluded idea of friendship? If so, how could I not see the beast before me, rivaling every folktale and myth concocted in human history?

May you one day see the light of your actions and what led you toward the deserted road you’ve taken. In spite of the pain you’ve caused, I wish no misfortune upon you. I’d be no better than any wronged souls that came upon your merry way. Once kindred sisters, I impart to you only memories to carry onward in life.

Be that as it may, I wash my hands clean, demon of mine. For I will not be a contestant of your twisted game anymore. I am stronger than you perceived me to be. Never again will I fall apart like a paper-thin, lifeless creature in your hands.

Editor: Shannon Hensley