the beast

[metaphorliteral]

I have become a civilized creature again.
The beast within my breast has curled up to sleep.
I never thought I'd regain my senses when
being near you was all that could keep
me happy-- or not happy, but as close as I got.
Congratulations. Now we're both free
from these shackles my stupid heart wrought.
My smiles are not your responsibility--
not that you ever claimed they were,
not that this beast laid its claws into you,
not that you heard its roar. I prefer
to be the only one it almost slew.
I love you still, but with a love that is sedate.
The beast has given up. For you, I'll wait.