Bias

We have met before,
though you pretend not to.
I sat beside you in the cafeteria,
nudging your hand toward the familiar dish.
I walked with you through the library,
shadow at your shoulder.
I leaned over you in the classroom,
paper heart pressed against your page.
I curled in your pauses,
murmuring the world was kinder
when it agreed.

You let me in your thoughts.
You laughed when I bent rules.
you smiled when I titled your choices.
You held me so close, I couldn't breathe.
You carried me like perfume that clings to skin.



You may cheat on me with truth
but I will always stick to you.
If my name stirs unease upon your lips
or our bond feels scandalous
Then call me Favourite.
Names are garments
and I, beneath them all
will remain the lover your heart can't escape.