the evening asked
nothing from us
no one reached
for armor
laughter rose naturally
then drifted away
like steam from a warm cup
someone folded clothes
someone leaned back smiling
someone moved freely
through the room
without fear
the moment carried itself
no fixing
no proving
no disguises
we simply sat there
together
and the night flowed
gently
as it was
© 2026 Corvalya