My Final Gift

In darkening silence, I followed her footsteps,

impressed in a blanket of snow.

I called out her name and she paused in her flight,

before turning, her dark eyes aglow.

I knew that the pain she now felt was my doing;

each streak down her cheek broke my heart,

yet fate was against us; our young budding romance

was over before it could start.

My family curse had appeared with the full moon;

such hunger could not be denied.

Controlling the beast deep inside was unheard of—

men stronger than I had oft tried.

The hatred for me I saw bloom on her face,

though it hurt, was still better than death;

with eyes full of tears, I then turned, and I whispered

“I love you” soft, under my breath.

She’d go on without me. Though maybe unhappy,

at least I was sure she would live.

Some day I hoped she would find love in her future,

no greater a gift could I give.