do men even love anymore?
coming from a woman who gave it all—
who still couldn’t fathom what is at the heart of men.

she had the love,
was it difficult to appreciate?
the late-night paragraphs,
the never-ending patience of hers,
the letters,
the affection—
she loved him, even in her chaos.
she wanted to be loved too.

she had the doubt,
was it difficult to reassure?
the same repeated cycles
led to trust issues.
she betrayed her dignity
to love you.

she had the effort,
was it difficult to reciprocate?
she who gave it all
was content with the bare minimum.

she, despite all the things that hurt her,
couldn’t unlove one
who she once loved.

she waited,
until she couldn’t anymore.

To the men-
make em feel loved, without em begging.
-akshitha