I like you more than I planned to,
more than I meant to let happen.
And I tell myself I’m being reasonable,
that I don’t own your time,
don’t get to claim your attention,
don’t get to mind who else you talk to.
But I do mind.
I notice the way your phone lights up,
the names I recognize,
the way your attention drifts
like it doesn’t belong anywhere for long.
I don’t want to be selfish.
I don’t want to be the girl
who expects something
that was never promised.
But wanting you to choose me first,
wanting to be the only one
you give that smile to—
that’s exactly what selfish looks like.
And maybe I am.
Because liking you
has turned me into someone
who hopes quietly,
watches closely,
and pretends not to care
when I really, really do.
Apr 13
Apr 13, 2026 at 9:43 AM UTC
I like you more than I planned to,
more than I meant to let happen.
And I tell myself I’m being reasonable,
that I don’t own your time,
don’t get to claim your attention,
don’t get to mind who else you talk to.
But I do mind.
I notice the way your phone lights up,
the names I recognize,
the way your attention drifts
like it doesn’t belong anywhere for long.
I don’t want to be selfish.
I don’t want to be the girl
who expects something
that was never promised.
But wanting you to choose me first,
wanting to be the only one
you give that smile to—
that’s exactly what selfish looks like.
And maybe I am.
Because liking you
has turned me into someone
who hopes quietly,
watches closely,
and pretends not to care
when I really, really do.
Why is this so complicated...
Request permission to use this poem