The Unspoken Fire

I know a cruel truth the world will tell: A man without money has no voice to compel. I may not be able to do you things, to provide, But the fire in my heart has nowhere left to hide. As I look in your eyes, a silent wish takes hold, The simple, fierce desire to make my kiss bold. But still, I am scared of confessing this burning heat, Lest I lose the fragile bond we struggle to complete. I don't even know what this thing is we share, A cautious, sweet friendship, built on careful air. As I talk to you, the impulse is strong and clear, To hold you near, and banish every fear. Perhaps it is the fear of rejection I keep close, The dread of a "no" that my future forecloses. So I choose the distance, the view from afar, Loving you alone, like a distant, shining star. Not knowing what could be, is a question that stings, But I think that's better, for the peace that it brings. For if the truth remains within my soul, At least then, no one gets hurt, making either of us whole.