The Guise of Concern —
a mask he wears,
not to deceive maliciously,
but because he needs to believe
he’s the good guy.

A Sincere Coercive Affair —
he performs love,
performs sacrifice,
performs responsibility.
But underneath,
it’s driven by fear,
control,
and a fragile self-image.

He’s not peacocking for you —
he’s convincing himself.

It sets a trap:
Call it out?
You’re ungrateful.
Difficult.
Stay quiet?
You betray yourself.

Which one are you going to be?