gladiolus

he likened me to a flower

as he sought to win my heart

I was to him

soft and delicate

with a fragrance reminiscent of heaven

chuckling softly,

I asked if all women were flowers

with light, silky petals

and musky scents 

but what of a rose

I asked

her thorns draw blood if

enemies attack

and what of the gladiolus

her vertical blooms

embodying the sword wielded by

the warrior’s will

and what of jewelweed

or stinging nettle

larkspur, and nightshade

all beautiful, but

deadly

no harm intended unless disturbed

will you still liken me to a

flower

I asked his silence,

now that you see all the power

a delicate bloom may
wield