the lilies were in bloom when i last visited her.
ivy was crawling up the walls
and she smiled with such satisfied beauty
as she admired her makeshift sanctuary.

she offered me tea; a fruity blend of her own making
as we sat down on the porch, the sun illuminating her garden.
she spoke softly, her eyes piercing through me
and just as it was before, i was a graceless mess
absolutely in love with that knowing stare.

we sat in a comfortable silence for the most part,
the gentle clinking of our glasses against the table
and the cicadas singing in the grass
much sweeter than any news i had to give.

she tucked a stone into my hand as i left,
a cold quartz globe, and wished me safe travels.
and when i glanced back at the perfect little home
i wished only that they would lead me back here.