Hope

My chest feels heavy, my legs tremble, and my tears fall silently because I don’t even know how to ask for the care I need.

I kept waiting for it from the person I’ve loved for so long -not someone who doesn’t love me, but someone who never knew how to reach me when I needed them the most.

I never asked for perfect words or grand gestures. I only wanted a hug, a gentle “I’m here,” a hand holding mine until my heart felt safe again.

But after waiting for so long, I’m tired. I’m slowly losing hope of being cared for in the way my heart understands.

So I hold my pillow close and imagine the comfort I’ve been craving,a soft touch, a forehead kiss, a voice whispering, “You’re not too much. Your feelings are valid. I’m not leaving.”

And I try to give myself the love I kept waiting to receive.