Backburner

A strange smell wafts into the room
crisp, overcooked, almost charred;
beating heart mixed with scraped metal
Too much tenderness
combined with thoughtlessness
I felt comfortable and warm at one time
but over time
my skin began to melt
In the overwhelming heat
surrounded by nothing
but my own sweat and hope
I wait
for love and attention
that will always come too late
I close my eyes
Let the flames die with me!
as you strike the match again
to light the backburner...