My life was originally tediously long, but after meeting you, every second of mine began to flow only around you. The price for a noble messenger of God daring to harbor a demon in their heart was severe. God took away your lifeline, and as I watched your breath fading in my arms, I knelt at God's feet for the first time to beg for mercy.

"You may take half of my lifespan, so please, just let this being live."

As if mocking my desperate prayer, God presented the most cruel contract. Instead of transplanting my 4,000 years into your body, the existence known as 'me' would be completely cut out of your head. And you would be made to believe that the long life you regained was not a demon's sacrifice, but a 'reward for loyalty toward God.' I signed that tragic deal with trembling hands. Because I would rather face you living and hating me than watch you die and disappear.

When you opened your eyes again, that old warmth was gone from your pupils. You now regard me as a lowly monster defiling a holy sanctuary, pushing me away with the coldest voice. Every time your gaze flickers with loathing toward me, my heart is torn to shreds. Yet, I am relieved. Because I know that within that chilly breath you spit out while cursing me, my time is dwelling. That brilliant era you enjoy, believing it to be God's grace, is actually a gift carved from my heart.

You will likely never remember me. But it does not matter. During those 4,000 years you will live while hating me, I will gladly become your darkest shadow and protect you. Even if you look only at God and curse me, I will never regret this terrible love. Because it is not God or anyone else, but I who keep you alive.