The Sting of Betrayal

It's called the sting of betrayal because it literally burns, it causes you to pull back sharply as you inhale a short, rapid, but strong breath of air - as if your brain knows you'll need a bit more oxygen to process the news.  Moments and hours go by, and at times you can almost distract yourself enough to mute the pain, but ah, there it is, still throbbing, still reminding you of that moment of contact that is seared into you.  You can treat it and be somewhat successful in soothing the pain, but once your source of comfort is removed, it returns as strong as before, reminding you that nothing has really been healed.  You lie awake in bed, desperately craving the sleep your body and mind need, but the throb keeps you awake.  Scenes, words, and images, flash behind even closed eyes as you replay the shock of it over and over again, each time foolishly hoping there is a different ending.  You marvel at your own stupidity, for buying into the game, for believing the lies, for dragging innocent bystanders into harm's way.  You recall the most inane moments, now with a glaze of distrust and paranoia.  And still it throbs.  Still it burns.  Still it stings.  Yes, this is real.  Nightmares and fears don't hurt like this.