Because I love you,

I back off when I see your eyes go dark. 

Because I love you, 

I question the marks on your arms.

Because I love you,

I don't mention them a second time.

Because I love you,

I don't tell you I hate him.

Because I love you, 

I watch your back as slyly as I can.

Because I love you,

I make sure you know there's a home with me.

Because I love you,

I don't say it out loud.

Because I love you,

I watch and listen.

Because I love you,

I stay silent.

 

I wish you saw the things I see.

I wish you could be the person I know you can.

I miss who you are.

I don't like this shy sliver of a creature. 

This isn't you. 

It's not true.

You aren't even six feet tall, 

so how are you six feet deep?

 

Because I loved you,

I raise my voice.

Because I loved you,

I make sure others question bruises.

Because I loved you,

I make sure people know.

Because I loved you,

I created an awareness surrounding your name.

Because I loved you,

I don't back down.

Because I loved you,

He's in jail.

Because I loved you,

I fight for more laws.

Because I loved you, 

I stand tall.

 

You aren't here.

You're gone.

Because I loved you,

I didn't speak out.

Now I do.

Because I love you.