We grew from little smiles,
to roundabout conversations
that blossomed into jokes
and gradually became heart-to-hearts
in the middle of the night.

Swirling leaves of green then gold,
before the gentle rhythm of rain on tin.
Cold bus journeys
and casual suggestions
that were never followed through.  

We fell into little silences
and roundabout conversations
that turned to bitter jokes
and the breaking of your heart
in the middle of the night.

Angry words more softly spoken
but the sentiment holds true.
“I just want to make you smile.”
But your sweet request
just made me cry.

You left me alone for two slow years.
You cut your hair and you grew so tall.
I forgot to think about you anymore,
until one fateful day
when the future began.

The olive branch smile,
and gently turning conversation
became well-rehearsed jokes,
and a tentative friendship,
in the middle of the night.