The Secret

If he knew
the breath he stole
or the electricity he pulsed
and pushed through my skin.
If he knew
the hole he leaves
when his voice is silent
and his arms are distant.
If only he knew
the wounds he covered
and demons he buried.
Or the brilliant way
his memory carries.
If he knew the way he swelled my heart
or the kingdom of butterflies he builds
just from looking
in my direction.
If he knew the depths I’ve slain
or the hours we gain
when we stop time.
If he knew,
then he too
would fold
into a million pieces.
For now,
to save him that pain
I will keep silent.
And continue
in secret
to hold his universe inside of mine.
And never
let go.