Your friends say they don’t know you anymore- you’re like a stranger in the crowd. Loud mouth. Baby smile. Darker eyes than mountains you promised to climb, but never did. Tell me all your plans and how it’s all make- believe. Secrets mean more to me than sleep so I stay awake as thick shadows surround my room. I wait for their whispers and share mine too. I’m like a prisoner to the night, but I need it as much as the stars. I mean, how else would anyone see the glow? You used to shine too, you know. Pale lips. Open wounds. Count the scars and break them back open just to make sure you can still bleed. Sleep when you’re awake. Say hello when you feel lonely. Greet me at the door with that curious smile. It’ll feel like seeing a stranger who I swore I once met before.

Like looking in a mirror. -AMT