I can’t walk like I’m going to get shot in the throat. I just can’t. and I hate everything you listen to. It’s loud and repetitive and every band sounds the same. And I love my tattoos, but I wish I knew you loved me without them. And I want to go to bed earlier. And I want you to be there when I do. And I want to see the beach again, only for a little while. And I’m sorry if this disappoints you. I’m sorry if you feel like I’ve wasted your time. I’m just not who you want.

And he looked at me with his sad gray eyes and he said,
When I told you to walk like you’re going to get shot in the throat, I meant I want you to walk with your head held up high. I just wanted you to listen to music that meant something to you. I love you without your tattoos, I’d love you painted your whole body. All this time I wanted you to be proud. Just proud.

I want you.
And I want you to be proud.