I miss you, even when I pretend I don’t. Every beat of my heart quietly says your name. I act like I’m fine, like it doesn’t hurt— But it does. Every day, it does. My friends ask, “What did he have that others don’t?” But it was never about looks or things. How could I love someone else, When I’m still holding on to you? You loved me when I couldn’t love myself. You helped me feel safe being me. But now, when I reach moments I’m proud of, You’re not there to see. They say, “He’s not even good-looking. You deserve better.” But you were beautiful in a way they couldn’t see. It wasn’t about a perfect face— It was about how you made me feel free. Looking at someone new feels wrong, Like I’m betraying something still alive in me. Your love isn’t gone—it’s part of me. Even if I grow, part of me stays with you. I still remember how we joked and fought, Like silly enemies who secretly cared. I remember when you liked me back— That moment felt like magic we both shared. Now you’re gone. No voice, no smile. It feels like a dream I didn’t want to end. Loving you was never the mistake. Letting you go is what hurts the most. Even if one day you get married, I’ll still hope you’re happy—truly happy. I’ll pray no lies or misunderstandings Ever pull you apart like they did to us. Because loving you Was never the problem. Losing you was. -lai