Bygones

"I think we could have lasted," he says, his lowered voice sounding evidently rueful. His shy eyes stay on the short stretch of road ahead.

"...You think?"

"Yeah. It wasn't like just... you know... yeah."

She nods knowingly.

They were once inseparable. Both of them forgot how they lost touch, but tonight makes them remember how much they've missed each other. His jittery palm rubs unruly hair carpeting the back of his head.

"I'm sorry! I shouldn't have told you anything... I feel so awkward now!"

"No, I'm sorry! I shouldn't have been so curious."

They look at each other reluctantly. The mutual affection that was left untended for too long, now resuscitated, breathes gently on their faces.

"Everything happens for a reason, I guess."

"Yeah. That's true."

The engine of the car parked outside her house grumbles impatiently. It's getting late. They thank each other for the evening. Their embrace is long and tight, infused with understanding, complacency, and heart.

She loosens away with a tender countenance.

"...Now go see your baby. She's waiting for you."

He smiles graciously under the amber glow of the streetlamp.