Silent Loss

In the depths of my heart, I longed for more, But when I confessed, her words tore, "I want you as a friend," she softly said, And my dreams shattered, filling me with dread. It was hard to hear, my soul in dismay, The weight of her rejection, I couldn't convey With a hidden ache, I masked my despair, Fighting back tears, whispered, "I'll repair. Echoing inside, a million times the words repeat, Like a thorny path tangled beneath my feet. "I don't want to ruin our friendship," she spoke, Yet confusion consumed me, like a riddle unwoke. Was it my appearance, not pleasing to her eyes? Or did I fall short, to meet her lofty skies? Perhaps there was someone else in her heart, Or maybe I simply failed, right from the start. Was I too bothersome, a constant strain? Or did I lack the qualities she sought to attain? I questioned my worth, as doubt began to grow, In her eyes, maybe I was not meant to glow. In graceful acceptance, I honour her choice, Never to impose, nor silence her voice. In the tapestry of friendship we share, I'll treasure her presence, showing I care, She'll remain a star, while I walk this Earth, Respecting her decision, recognizing her worth. She'll shine like a star while I journey on, Acknowledging her decision, my heart's withdrawn. - Nischal Srinivasan