Behind the Laugh

Small talk drifting. I'm tuned to the gaps. Those little micro pauses where the

truth collapses. You throw my name out loud like part of your act.

I throw a grin back even though it's cracked. People think I'm

built from banter and jokes. But it's armor I forged for the people I

hold close. They know parts of me I never meant to show.

Using old shadows to keep me low. But I've walked through rooms where

the love felt thin. Still held the door open told them come in.

Guardian heart in a world that forgets. I carry more weight than my