[Verse 1] Patiently watched as nightfall came I’ve learned how to pass for tame I don’t stalk the streets like before But the hunger still wants more Your name burns white on the screen I’ve broken better things than this machine Centuries taught me how to hide Not how to quiet what lives inside [Pre-Chorus] I’ve torn men apart for less than doubt Now I count my breaths, ride it out If I sound controlled, it’s not peace It’s a leash [Chorus] So hit send before the urge breaks through Before I remember what I used to do I won’t show up at your door I don’t play that game anymore I’m trying to be something clean for you But I’m carved from older truths If you want the man, not the animal in me Hit send before the dawn [Verse 2] I used to take love like conquest gold Proper celebrations, blood and old I’ve traded crowns for a low-lit room I made my bed inside a glass-lit tomb Your voice still stays my hand Still pulls me back from where I stand You don’t hear the things I don’t say The names of the dead, the debts I’ve paid [Pre-Chorus 2] I’ve lived through eras built on blood I know how easy it is to give up Every second I don’t cross that line Is a fight [Chorus 2] So hit send before the urge breaks through Before instinct tells me what to do I don’t need an invitation inside I need you secure on the other side I want you soft, I want you safe Not another sin I have to erase If you want the man I’m trying to be Hit send before the dawn [Bridge] I still dream in teeth and fire In the few hours when I retire Romance wasn’t bred in me I learned it watching silently I don’t kneel, I don’t beg I choose restraint, not regret If I reach for you at all It’s because I want control [Final Chorus] So hit send while the night stays black Lest I revert to my old plans of attack No roses, no ancient oath Just messages tempting us both I could take—I’ve always known how But I want to be someone else right now If you want love that still has scars Hit send before the dawn [Outro] The sky lightens. I don’t A message stills the hunger Until the night comes back around

Before the Dawn