The Freedom to Build a Prison

She gambled on another for happiness,
So I built myself a prison cell
In her honour.

No guards are needed.
I won't escape,
It's comfortable here, although
I beat myself up frequently.

She visits from time to time
Fearing she may have backed the wrong horse.
She talks of feelings while whispering
Sweet absolute nothings in my ear.

I'm free to leave at any time,
The cell door is always ajar.
But I'm shackled by yesterday's passions,
Manacled to tomorrow and what could be........

But never will.