It is, as if, the world's colors dimmed. Those favorite chocolates of yours do not taste as sweet and those three words, "I love you" taste bitter at the tip of your tongue. Some days are easier than others, when the world is kind to not set up little things that remind you of them. their name in your English book, their favorite shirt worn on a passing stranger and the most peculiar one of them all- their scent mysteriously filling up your lungs. And by such surprise you are taken that you look around the room searching for a ghost you know is not there. His scent intoxicates your lungs and you try to scream for help but you can't- his sweet aroma stops you mid-breath and all of it, all of it comes back. In less than a second; his laughter, the way he would pout when upset, his eyes, his lips, the way he searched for your hand and grasped it tightly as if any moment you'd disappear. All of it flashes in front of you. And you are there- at your desk with your heart bleeding and staining the picture around you. And you are there- firmly grasping your desk until your knuckles turn white so you won't lose your grasp to reality. And you are there- facing the world on your own with words that cannot be said or spoken of as they cling on the back of your throat and if even whispered.. the words would fall and shatter your very being. And you blink slowly as they ask, "Are you okay?" And with every aching muscle in your face you manage a smile, a halfhearted laugh, and say "I'm fine! Just tired.." and you're falling apart but look so well put together and they turn around and believe your mask instead.
