{time and punishment}

branches of the ancient pines bow gloomily,

as the scarlet sunset fades into the forest.

i suppose i write the story in past tense,

because it’s the last thing i want to happen,

but if i prepare for it,

i won’t be surprised,

and perhaps even suffer a little less.

but also maybe because you’ll oppose it,

because it’s hard to dismiss it as a coincidence.

but there is beauty to be found,

in the things that scare you the most.

–e.l. jayne