I felt seen in that moment, and I would’ve slept in that feeling if it weren’t for the fact that it was all pretend.

“I want to be noticed in a crowded room. I want to be the only person in a crowded room. I want to be wanted, truly wanted, and desired. I want to laugh and to sing and to dance with someone and not feel self-conscious over it because I love them and I’m confident that they love me. I want to be touched and kissed and held because I’ve forgotten

His entering presence mimicked the nostalgia of coming home for Christmas;

It felt arrogant to enjoy something that had to do with myself.