She told me her heart was cold

Only because she needed to believe it

If I don't respond, is it a silent nod in agreement?

I neglect to confront and her words turn to creed.

She told me her heart was cold,

I had felt it warmer than the summer sun

Empathy and compassion could overflow

Every single dam and wall

Gentle hands, caring words, sincere concern

She told me her heart was cold,

Frigid and impenetrable,

Brittle and ready to break

I whispered warm "I love you's"

Into her delicate, hungry ears

She told me her heart was cold

I held her close

Feeling her melting, becoming soft again

Safe to be vulnerable in this space.