The Smile You Bought

The Smile You Bought

You called me wicked, said it like a prayer,

as if breaking me was some kind of dare.

I smiled, I swear I did,

because pain wears better when it fits.

You spoke of love like it came on strings,

puppet promises, hollow things.

But I’m no marionette in your cracked hands,

I walked away, see where I stand.

Did you miss me?

Or just miss the game,

the wild little prize you couldn’t tame?

I gave you kindness, you wore it thin,

till all I had was bone and skin.

Still, I smiled, teeth sharp with grace,

you never noticed the cracks in my face.

You bought my laughter cheap and loud,

but I sold my silence to the crowd.

And in the hush, where shadows fall,

you never knew me at all.

Now I watch you fall for her disguise,

same painted lips, same pretty lies.

And when she leaves you wrecked and small,

you’ll hear my laughter through it all