the want to be wanted

i know it is wrong

to want you for your attention

 

i can't help it;

 

i like being liked

i like the way your eyes swoon

in delight when i'm nearby

i like the way you smile

like you're just glad i'm here

 

i like the way you're always there

a constant, a reliable pattern

a familiar turn of events

 

and i know it is wrong to rely on our pattern,

this unnamed back and forth we both play

but i can't help wishing

i played a little longer

 

because the uncertainty of you pulling away

now that i've pushed closer

and me doing the same

 

i'm tired of these little games