It was real. A life so long and genuine that most can only dream.

I remember the first time we met as I caressed her lips. Rejuvenating her dry and cracked existence. I knew then, I would try to see this through. I did not know, she would stick with me until the bitter end.

I have stayed with her everyday for 298 days. Not always needed but always around. Just in case. I have seen dear friends meet their end much sooner. Discarded and forgotten while still in their prime. It takes a special bond to make it for as long as we did.

I feel myself growing smaller and more brittle with age. My shroud tattered and dingy. Bits of dirt and pocket lint caked in corners. But when I go, I can say I was the one she didn't loose. I can say I gave her everything I could. And with my dying breath I scraped her lips leaving her dry and cracked.

I am the fully used tube.