I learned to hold my breath
like it was stolen air
Grew up mapping the mood swings
as if they were road signs
Feet light on broken glass
So, I wouldn't wake the storm
I swallowed my own words
to keep their silence safe
Every apology a brick in my spine
Supporting their collapse
I carried their chaos
as if it were my inheritance
Now my voice rises in defiance
Each syllable a fist
Against the old walls
My anger isn't shame
It's the sound of doors
Finally bursting open
I refuse to shrink
Into the shadows again
I am the daughter
Who learned to roar.