-- Look close at this breath
exhale, wind rushing past lips
forgetful of everything
no more music, no turning hips

no hands are on mine
bereft, I crumble and die
dreaming of what just was
touch and beauty now silent eyes

you stare at fragile echos
I am not these words
I am not this thing you turn away from

you were my white knight
and now, her gesture saves me
entranced by her virtue
I am spinning, caught, victory

lean close, I am smiling
we watch as you stride away
back turned on the ball's ruins
you still draw breath for this day

tomorrow catch whispered rumors
I was all they said
she and I, this beast you now must flee from

look back at this dance
one night, flame failing, guard dropped
then you, my sweet companion
will join our ball, our danse macabre --