These Three Words

i’ve written poems in my mind with lines i never dared to speak. held back the tide behind my smile, afraid my voice would come out weak. but your silence is not empty, it’s waiting for something true. and i can’t keep pretending i don’t know what i should do... these three words, they burn beneath my skin— they ache to be let in. i’ve held them far too long, but they’ve always been your song. and if i say them now, will you stay? will you hold them like the sky holds day? these three words: i love you. i’ve heard them said so carelessly, in movies, songs, and passing air— but this time they are everything, and i need you to know i care. so i won’t wrap them up in fear or whisper them too late... ’cause love is more than perfect lines, it’s the leap we choose to take. these three words, they tremble on my tongue— but their story just begun. no diamonds, no grand stage, just the truth that breaks the cage. and if i give them, will you believe that they’re more than air i breathe? these three words: i love you. we don’t need fireworks tonight, just the courage to hold what feels right. i’m not asking for forever— just for now, and maybe ever... these three words, they’re all i want to give— the reason that i live. i’ve waited all my life to say them when it feels right. so here i am—no fear, no disguise— just you, and the truth in my eyes: these three words: i love you.