Xvii

I always intended to love you Alone. In secret, in silence, inside, and safe. I was prepared for the unrequited, for inevitable desire and disappointment, Spectate, distance, move on, And be the subject of a one-sided love. And all the while, you meant each lingering glance to Linger. Our eyes knew how to talk before we ever spoke of love or lovers. I inferred what was hidden there, untold. I was right to assume, to hope that there was more, For there was, is, and so it goes. I love you. Still secret, but now not alone. I am afraid of what this makes me, but fear knows blood like love knows blood. And so, knowingly, I let you bleed as you make me Love. Don't stand so far away, although I know you must. My first sleepless night without you.