Baking a birthday cake for the person who hurt you the most
Just two days after he betrayed you
Placing a candle meant to bring inner healing in the frosting
For him to make a wish on
Not asking what he wished for
You already know
Choosing love looks like leaving your ring on the counter
Letting him read the note alone
Because he hates to be seen crying
Choosing love looks like taking on the responsibility
Of being the one to file
Knowing it would be hell for him to do
Choosing love looks like coming to terms with the fact
That he was never real
It looks like acceptance
Indifference
And healing
Choosing love looks like bringing two pens
When you deliver the papers
Because you know before the words even leave his mouth
He forgot to bring one
Choosing love looks like no longer being in love
No longer knowing someone
And still wishing them well
Despite all the harm they caused
Choosing love looks like choosing yourself
It looks like peace
It looks like this
Rey Fairburn
Rey Fairburn (she/they) is a queer, neurodivergent poet and artist. She has been published by Fauxmoir, Lived Collective, ROOM Magazine, and more. Find more of their work on Instagram @reysenchantments or at www.reysenchantments.com