[Verse 1]

I set two plates on the table,

Even though you never come.

Still hear your laugh in the doorway,

Still pretend you’re not gone.

I’ve been learning to forgive ghosts,

But it’s harder when they breathe.

You were supposed to be my shelter,

Not the storm that swallowed me.

[Chorus]

And I don’t hate you — I swear I don’t,

It’s just the silence that I choke on most.

You disappeared like you were smoke,

And left me standing in your coat.

I don’t hate you — I just miss you,

More than I’ll ever say.

You were supposed to love me,

You were supposed to stay.

[Verse 2]

You taught me how to tie my shoes,

But not how to let go.

How to stand tall in a crowd,

But not where to go alone.

I keep writing songs for strangers,

Wishing one would sound like you.

I’ve been growing up without you —

That’s all I ever seem to do.

[Chorus]

And I don’t hate you — I swear I don’t,

It’s just the silence that I choke on most.

You disappeared like you were smoke,

And left me standing in your coat.

I don’t hate you — I just miss you,

More than I’ll ever say.

You were supposed to love me,

You were supposed to stay.

[Bridge]

Every birthday, every year,

I half expect to see you here.

But you’re just a shadow in a frame,

And I’m tired of saying your name.

[Outro]

So I’ll leave one light on for you,

Even though I know you won’t come through.

I don’t hate you — I never could,

But missing you hurts worse than it should.

You were supposed to stay.