Tempt not this lonely heart with promises,
hastily conceived, born of obsession,
masked with tender kisses of deception,
that prey so upon this desperate need.

This blind need that cannot see beyond self,
can’t discern the ploys of dishonesty,
a victim ripe for perfidious aims,
starved for the temper of true love’s delight.

Breach not this fragile tower of defense,
with careless words not born of pure intent,
words that enter as a lover’s caress,
and depart with the sting of the viper.

The bite that remains forever intact,
indelible; a searing wound of pain,
that contaminates every lucid thought,
invades every restless dream with despair.

Spare this vulnerable soul from deceit,
from endless days of unscrupulous ruse,
depart instead with merciful release,
for this heart undeserving of such guile.