On Flattery

When you say 'you're beautiful,' I don't believe you. When you say 'you're amazing,' I try and swallow my doubt. I return a placid smile and blank eyes.

And it's not because I don't know these things are true (because sometimes I do).

And it's not because I'm incredibly insecure (although sometimes I am).

I know you haven't been around long enough to have learned the bones and guts and blood of it. It is just an idea of me that you want to hold. It is just the possibility.

I return a placid smile, because I know how dangerous your sweetness could be. I know how easy it could be to slip into relying on your words and validation. And what a fleeting and intangible thing that is to rely on.