• “It’s been awhile.”

    Casual words exchanged between ex lovers from the previous day ten past the hour of four. Memories of joy, love, lies and hurt, thought of to be forgotten, arose back into my mind as our bodies touched for a mutual hug stitched with awkwardness.

    “You look good.”

    “So do you.”

    Smiles were exchanged as each others’ compliments were taken in. Anxiety soon left me after I saw that smile. A smile so ordinary, so simple and yet not unique; but gave me butterflies every time. Silent words were exchanged as our eyes met and feelings transferred, old feelings. Onlookers were oblivious as they glanced upon us, a strange couple.

    Here, in my arms, lay my biggest mistake. I hold on tight as I take in the view; tangled limbs, tasselled hair, crumpled sheets with a musty scent. This was what I loved. This was who I loved. I got up from the dirty mattress and redressed; a new day was to begin. Murmurs escape from the bundle that lay on the bed.

    “Don’t leave.”

    I didn’t glance back.

    “Don’t disappear on me again.”

    I ignore the soft whimpers.

    “I love you.”

    I left.