The song "Wait Up" by Hurts tells the story of a person who constantly disappoints their partner by cheating on them. The lyrics describe a scenario where it's four in the morning and the protagonist is driving past their partner's apartment. They notice a candle in the window, indicating that their partner is waiting for them despite their past mistakes. The protagonist reflects on how their infidelity always leaves them feeling empty and hollow. They acknowledge their partner's worry and apologize for their actions. They assure their partner that they are coming home and ask them to wait up, as they feel shameful and unholy for their behavior. As the protagonist arrives on their partner's street, they try to mask the evidence of their infidelity by wiping off lipstick from their collar and the smell of whiskey on them. They acknowledge that the more they cheat, the more they love, but it also eats them up inside, making them question why they continue to engage in this behavior. Despite the guilt and shame, the protagonist admits to still carrying their partner's perfume on their coat. They stare at their phone in the taxi cab, possibly contemplating the consequences of their actions. The chorus repeats the message of the protagonist apologizing for their behavior, feeling ashamed and unholy, and asking their partner to unlock the door and wait for them to come home. Overall, the song conveys the internal struggle of someone who wants to change their ways and be faithful but finds themselves trapped in a cycle of infidelity. It explores themes of guilt, love, and the destructive nature of cheating in a relationship.
