I hid it.

I disguised it.

I stashed it away –

in the most secretive, unassuming place.

I wrapped it.

I tied it.

And bit off the string –

with, I must say, some grace.

I gave it away

in an alabaster box,

I smiled and offered it graciously –

and was met with a toll of rejection.

Despite my perfection –

it was made evident -

the guilt still belonged

to me.