We’ll see each other at a coffee shop. you’ll order a lattè and I’ll order an ice coffee. I never had patience to let it cool down and you’ll make note of that when you turn the corner and greet me with a faint smile. But you won’t look me in my eyes because the guilt stings your pupils. I’ll be standing front and center. Holding my head up like I’m wearing a crown. I’ll laugh that you remembered my order and it’ll fade into a blank stare. I’ll hear your heartbeat and remind you that forgiveness starts with me. Whatever you decide to become is a product of your version of the truth. You’ll tell me it’s good to see me and I’ll nod. You’ll leave and I’ll swear I see you look back. Later that day we won’t finish our coffees. We’ll stare at the swirling hues and think about the first time we met. We’ll define what that meant to both of us to make it sting a little less. You’ll drive for miles and miles to clear your head and I’ll tuck myself in the corner and write about loneliness and how it means nothing unless I give it power. I swear to myself that I won’t give in and order a hot coffee. I won’t stop going to my favorite shop. I won’t look over my shoulder to see if you’re there. -AMT ©️