The Fire Watch.

We were restless that
summer, tracking new
fires and mysteries of
the forest, learning why
we chose this spot to
be our home for two and
a half months.

We shared our fears and
conspiracies, when nights
became unpredictable
and the compass didn't
guide us to the solutions
we'd dreamed of.
I swore I once heard your
heartbeat through the
radio, and it ignited in me
a desire to never let you
rest too far from safety.

I never knew my grief
could take other forms
before I met you, but
you brought me back,
each time, when I
had to confront the
caves that trapped
all of my doubts in
one place.

You showed me there's
nothing wrong with
running away, as long
as we someday return
and make peace with
the dying embers.

The world refused to
stay patient with us
forever. The fires blazed,
beyond our control, and
eventually, we had
to evacuate.

We were separated,
and though I never had
the chance to map the
stars with you,
though I imagined your lips
to be a cartographer's
most promising vision,
I'm sure I'll find you again,

even if it's just in the
smoky sunset, when
the sky is once more
set aflame.

____________________

Inspired by the 2016 adventure game "Firewatch", which I just finished playing. The story, scenery, voice acting and soundtrack make it one of my favorite games.