I loved you
like a dream,
a world in my mind that only I could see,
a possibility that was a fantasy land
a future that didn't seem real.

I loved you
like a stranger,
a smile and a gentle wave,
a,”hello,” and, “goodbye”,
a nod of acknowledgment that made my heart flutter
like a butterfly with its wings.

I loved you
like a friend,
secrets exchanged at quiet hours of the night,
private laughter behind phone screens,
trust forming faster than the speed of light,
a bond was emerging, fantasy blending into reality.

I love you,
like you're mine,
the half-lit movie theater on the first date,
awkward smiles and nervous body language,
months flying by like the handles of a clock
you said we belong together.

I love you,
like no one other,
the strong hugs and innocent school kisses,
the laughter that hurts so good, the eye contact that melts my soul,
the energy that heightens the attraction
best thing to ever happen to me.