The Line

Tracks

Isn't it lovely, all alone
Heart made of glass, my mind of stone
Tear me to pieces, skin and bone
Hello, welcome home - Billie Elish and Khalid, Lovely 

The platforms sit opposite each other, each one filled with its share of tired people, slouching, hungry, waiting for their day to end.

I walk to the end, where there are fewer bodies, and wait for my train. The sounds of announcements blare out in monotone, no one reacting or moving in response. The smell of carbon is thick and heavy in the air, our faces unreachable, swearing to give nothing away. The two black tunnels that lie ahead are dark, unforgiving and unknown.

Into the haze I step, allowing the tracks I stare at to turn into something more. Much more.

I look up and immediately catch his eye. The curious glint in them evident, through his hair that falls in strands over his forehead. Standing on the other platform, he too has headphones on, meaning that together, we aren't amongst the grey around us. Rather, we exist full of colour, the endless babble of voices becomes softer, quieter. The breeze brings the smell of vanilla with it, everything turning pink and feeling like silk.

My sense of self becomes dominant as the corners of his lips curve upwards, and I allow myself to think that this smile is mine to keep. After all, there is no one else here but me.

Why do I do this to myself.

The announcement comes, then so does the train. Just as the heavy, thick despair falls on me, and in my heart. My eyes cloud over as I walk, threatening to spill it all. Right here and now.

The tunnels consume all kinds of hope, as I try not to step back into the darkness of them. The truth is, I'm scared that soon I will.

Will this vicious circle continue, until I cannot hold on anymore?

A/N: Sorry this ones a bit sad compared to usual, I wasn't feeling 100% because of exams etc. Im better now tho it's ok :)