I am so scared of the power you hold.

You told me you loved me first, and I laughed. What does this boy know in a whiskey state of mind? My thoughts began racing, and I knew I wanted to say it back. We'll talk about it in the morning. I was too scared to ask if you meant it, and I went on holding my breath.

A few favorite poisons and a several late nights later, your eyes are on my screen and my source is revealed. I pick one, and one line in, you repeat yourself. You repeat a part of yourself that is several nights removed and front and center in my mind. I think I ask twenty times if you mean it.

You love me?

The next day it drops as you help me pass a test. You carry my weight and show me your world. I can't wait to fire into the sky, and I make a joke of your sweet words. I can swear to you that I cherish them.

It's my least favorite and cherished ritual, and goodbye has come again like a harsh profanity. My state of mind is clear, unaltered, and I'm terrified once again at the words behind my teeth. You know, and you ask, but at long last you say those words again. I whisper my reply in your ear, afraid it's your idea of a joke. You hold me tight and I know.

You love me.

I'm still afraid to tell you that I love you, still afraid that you aren't real. I love you with every inch, and I am absolutely terrified. It's so soon and you have complete reign. My mind is set to forever, and should you pull away, I'm not sure how I'd cope. I think I need you and I've never wanted to need anyone. Stay.

I hope you never stop loving me.

I could never stop loving you.