i dream of someone whose presence feels like quiet safety. like the world could fall apart and i’d still be okay if they were near. they’d tell me, “you’re mine.” and it wouldn’t sound like control, it would sound like home. not some big fairytale— just a touch. a hand on mine. their eyes finding me in a crowded room. and maybe that hope is what breaks me. because what if it never happens? what if they never come? what if i only ever almost feel it? i carry the dream anyway, like a secret i’m scared to say out loud. soft. glowing. a little bit afraid.