I Stopped Asking

I didn’t say I stopped loving you.

I just stopped waiting at the window.

Stopped refilling the kettle for two.

Let the silence steep longer than the tea.

I didn’t say I was lonely.

Just told the walls my stories instead.

Learned the shape of your disinterest

by how fast your eyes glazed when I spoke.

I didn’t beg for softness.

But I noticed its absence.

Felt how the warmth left the room

when your voice filled it.

I didn’t say I needed more.

You were always so proud

that I never complained.

I didn’t say it’s over.

Just turned the light out

before you came to bed.