Spilled Ink from the Vault

The truth can sting, but I know 
you can take it, beautiful.  You knew the risks,
messaging a sadist.  You certainly take a lot for me, 
from me, but right now you’re going to have to 
suffer my tenderness, the tenderness of the caregiver. 
Sometimes that’s harder 
than ending up covered in welts, I know. 
Sweetheart, it’s been too long 
since you were the one being bathed, 
cared for, tucked into bed,
and kissed goodnight while your hair is stroked. 
Just because you can get through life without care
it doesn’t mean you deserve to.  Funny
the things you’ll endure when you trust someone:
being reminded how lovable you are, 
how easy it is to love you, how it’s not difficult
to think of you, to check in on you.
I swear you melt a little every time I do. 
I can wipe away those tears as I tuck you in. 
Get some sleep, my good girl.