Chapter 87: hurt me, not them.

Hurt me, not them—

Let the weight fall on me,

Let the world take its toll,

While they remain free.

Let the storm rage,

Let the fire burn,

As long as they are safe,

I'll bear the hurt in turn.

I'll stand in the shadows,

I'll take the blow,

If it means their hearts

Will never know the sorrow's glow.

Hurt me, not them—

Take what you need,

I'll be the shield

While they take the lead.

I'll carry the burden,

I'll hold the pain,

As long as they don't break,

I'll stand in the rain.

But know that inside,

I'm breaking too,

The weight is heavy,

But it's what I choose to do.

Hurt me, not them—

It's what love asks of me,

To carry the ache,

So they can be free.