No More Can I Pretend

No more can I pretend

That your love belongs to me

When first I gave to you my heart

I thought you'd soon be free.

But we still have to hide our love

And it hurts me so inside

To live with guilt and fear each day

And all my feelings hide.

I'd be so proud to show my love

For all the world to see

My happiness would be complete

If only you were free.

I don't want to tie you down

Your life is yours to live

I only want as much of you

As you desire to give.

But I want it given openly

Not hidden out of sight

I'm tired of being second best

And I want to do what's right.

If she returns again to you

No longer can I be

The "other woman" in your life

It's not fair to her or me.

If we must always live a lie

Then It's better we part

Though losing what I thought was mine

Will  surely break my heart.

No more can I pretend 

That your love belongs to me

For I can never claim it

Till the day that you are free.

Pearl E. Cain