stumped

what do guys want to hear after they tell you you're beautiful?
what's the right response? what reply would make their risk worth it?

i mean it is kind of a risk.
it's the kind of words that after sent out, you hold your breath until you get a reply, playing back your reasons for making the admittance, toying with regret, evaluating this fresh position of vulnerability you've put yourself in

i'm never good at returning compliments because i feel so awkward and,
well just plain awkward,
so much so that even if my compliment is genuine it comes out really awkward and forced

i'm the most awkward recipient of a compliment you'll ever meet.
and that's a fact.

but
beautiful
i've always loved that word
<3