You Let Go

You let go of my hand and wandered away -
When you came back I didn't recognise you.
Had I honestly only turned my back for a moment?

Your face seems more drawn,
And someone stole the fire from your eyes.

Why did you step off the path?
We were heading in the right direction;
Amiable thoughts criss-crossing a blue sky,
And I had nothing but bliss in my heart.

I can barely comprehend your backwardness.
I'm stunned, momentarily motionless,
As my brain panics.

I feel almost like I'm on guard.

It just gets worse as paranoia
Bangs her fists against my temples -
Calling my name.

I want to tell her to go away,
To never darken my days again.
But, in my weakening confusion,
It would be nice to see a familiar face.

So, conflicted,
I draw the pages of my book around me
And sink into frightened silence.

I've left you a trail of breadcrumbs.
And left the lights on in the house.
But I've a feeling I'm going to have to
Go out there
And find you.
The real you.
Again.