Karif Battle, founder of Theoretical Fiends LLC, got this photo, by Ellie Burgin, from Pexels. A black rose covered with rain drops.
 

Cardio Raze

 

I let it happen.

 

She waits for me in the dark.

 

Her eyes are loveless.

 

I apologize in silence.

 

She dives into me, screaming like a banshee.

 

I awaken, and it hurts.

 

The doctor has bad news.

 

There's no time left.

 

I smile ‐ with blood-flavored teeth.