[Verse 1] Restaurant booth with my back to the wall. Three ways out. I remember them all. You’re telling a story; I’m watching the street, Car keys cutting a groove in my jeans. Somebody laughs as a glass hits the tile. My pulse takes off. I manufacture a smile. You ask where I went. I say, “Long day.” My body’s already a block away. [Chorus] Anywhere but here— That’s all I ever hear. Even with your arms around me, Something says to run. I get away from everyone And wonder why there’s no one. [Verse 2] I’ve gotten good at almost staying: One more drink, then invent an obligation. Sick tomorrow. Early shift. Always an answer, rehearsed and quick. You reach for your coat; I’m halfway to goodbye. You only meant to take a walk outside. I turn a moment into evidence, Then leave you serving someone else’s sentence. [Refrain] What did you do? Nothing at all. Why does my stomach Still start to fall? [Chorus] Anywhere but here— That’s all I ever hear. Even with your arms around me, Something says to run. I get away from everyone And wonder why there’s no [Breakdown] No slammed door. No raised voice. Nobody here Took away my choice. Still I bolt. Still you pay. I call it instinct. You call it walking away. [Bridge] Pulled over at a station, I finally read your text: “You could have said you needed air. I would have understood.” I type a long explanation. Erase it. “I got scared.” [Final Chorus] Anywhere but here— I can hear it loud and clear. Even with your arms around me, Something says to run. I ask you, “Could we step outside?” You say, “I’ll get my coat.” [Outro] We stand beneath the awning. I leave before the rain. This time, I tell you where I’m going. This time, I say I’ll call.
