Maybe this time
I’ll do it right.
Maybe I won’t fuck things up
like so many times before.
Maybe this round,
I’ll recognize fake feelings.
When I see them,
not when it’s too late.
Maybe this time
I won’t completely bust my heart,
let the gravel from the fall
sink into my skin.
Maybe this round
I’ll be able to say
I love you
and honestly mean it.
Maybe this time
I can take it to a level
that is comfortable
for both of us.
Not one in control of the other,
not one dangling off the side
while the other stands and watches
with such a sinister smile.
Not one who controls
the action and the emotions,
and sleeps soundlessly at night
while the other stays up
and thinks about the possibilities.
Maybe this round
I won’t regret sending him
that first message,
that gateway to potential.
Maybe this time,
everything will turn out right.
Just this once.
Just this one time.
