I didn't mean like this.

When I told you I'm not a man, I didn't mean that scheming bitch,

yelling back, hitting back, leaving without a word to the children.

When I told you I'm not a man, I didn't mean that scared little boy

hiding in your shadow, writing your goodbyes, avoiding your eyes,

praying she/he can just hold on long enough for you to heal.

When I told you I'm not a man, I didn't mean like this: scared little

girl curled up in her blood, her tears, full of hate and hoping you

might be different. When I told you I'm not a man, I didn't mean

it like a mating call, I didn't mean it like a daughter seeking a home.