The Way You Stayed

It started with ice cream and a summer laugh,

Didn’t know then it’d be more than that.

Four hours walking through the hush of the night,

But somehow, girl, it all felt right.

You wore your guard like a soft disguise,

But I saw truth behind those eyes.

And I ain’t here to play some game—

Chelsea, I remember everything.

You said, “I’m not easy to hold,”

But I wasn’t looking to let go.

You gave me time, you gave me grace,

And I fell for the way you stayed.

Stayed in the moment, stayed in the vibe,

Stayed in the rhythm when the world passed by.

Didn’t need forever in a single night—

You gave me peace, and that felt right.

Girl, I don’t need a perfect way,

I just need the way you stayed.

We laughed like we never lost time at all,

Like eighteen years weren’t that long.

The streetlights shimmered off your skin,

And I swear I knew where love begins.

You asked if I’d get tired of what you bring,

But I’ve never seen a more beautiful thing.

The real you, raw and unafraid—

That’s the part I’d never trade.

You said, “I don’t open up fast,”

But girl, you gave me something that lasts.

Not in words, but in your grace…

I fell for the way you stayed.

Stayed in the moment, stayed in the truth,

Stayed when the silence said more than you knew.

Didn’t have to try or entertain—

Just being with you eased the strain.

I don’t need fireworks or grand displays…

I just need the way you stayed.

No pressure, no rush to define,

But Chelsea, you feel like a sign.

I’d walk those four hours a thousand times,

If it meant I’d find your hand in mine.

You stayed in the stillness, stayed in my mind,

Stayed in a way I can’t leave behind.

Not chasing sparks or skies ablaze,

Just drawn to the warmth in your gaze.

I don’t need forever promised today—

I just need the way… you stayed.