Tonight I’ll sit on the
cold sands of a deserted beach,
looking out over the sighing waves of
a black ocean,
the sky subtly blending into the water
like a camouflage—
they are one in the same.
My eyes will reflect nothing
but the glowing red embers of the
cigarette balanced between my
trembling fingers.
There will be no fireworks to ignite
the barren night sky.

I’ll glance at the vacant spot beside me
and remember you,
and—in that ephemeral moment—
I’ll imagine you’re there with me.

My heart no longer feels as if
it’s on the verge of exploding—
its flame has long since
been snuffed out.