I stare at the darkness, questioning, thinking.

Will sleep slumber me tonight?

Or will Insomnia force my heavy eyes to be awake?

My feelings of guilt feed Insomnia, making her stronger, making her sly.

I can feel her talons brush against my cold skin under the blankets.

“Think of what you did, you tireless fool. Think of how they feel because of your actions.”

She whispers thoughts into my mind, paving a road to keep the wheels of my mind turning.

“Remember that embarrassing moment you had today? You’re ridiculous. Everyone will think you’re a fool.”

I try to fight her sour words. I try to fight the shadows that keep my eyes open.

“Stop!” I yell. “Please, sleep, overtake me, drown me if you will. Please!” I beg and beg, screaming pleas into my pillow.

Insomnia leave! Leave please! I can no longer live to be awake anymore.

Let my dreams haunt me, at least sleep will fill me.

But please, do not hold me in your iron grasp, where I cannot escape and be held as your prisoner.

If I do not sleep, death will swift me away, into the darkness that fills me every night and lingers in the day under my eyes.

“Maybe that is what you deserve.” She whispers.

And I am beginning to believe her sickening words, if only she’ll finally leave.