You always came out

When no one expected you

But you usually left battered and broken

That strong, carefree laugh

Fled to the outskirts of my mind

Replaced by a false, nervous screech

I really do miss you

But had you not fled

I do not think I would be here today

You were so very different

Which is why the hawks preyed on you

Remains left on the bone

You evaporated with the stroke of my tears

Each time becoming a little fainter

Harder to see

Each year you ventured out less

'Til your skin turned a sallow white

Soft voice lost in the roaring winds

The last I saw of you

You were sobbing. Pleading, gripping my hand

How a clam protects it's pearl

I shook you off, screaming

Crying myself, knowing full well

I'd never see your beautiful face again