Your personal defense bubble
Swelled to the size of a wrestling ring.
You are catching punches
That I’m not throwing.
Bleeding from old wounds I did not inflict.
Where I extend an olive branch,
You perceive me brandishing a menacing thornbush.
Your unseen assailant wails unpredictable blows.
The maniac pummels you mercilessly.
My outstretched arms
Are to hold your heart. Gently.
To shield you.
Let me.