The Last Call

“Hello?”

“I didn’t think you’d answer.”

“You called three times.”

“I was hoping you wouldn’t notice.”

“You always notice.”

“So do you.”

“Why are you calling now?”

“I needed to hear your voice.”

“That’s not a good reason.”

“It used to be enough.”

“It used to hurt less.”

“I’m sorry.”

“You say that every time.”

“I mean it this time.”

“You always mean it when it’s too late.”

“I didn’t know how to stay.”

“You never asked.”

“I thought you wanted space.”

“I wanted effort.”

“There’s a difference?”

“There was.”

“Are you happy?”

“I’m learning.”

“With someone else?”

“With myself.”

“I’m glad.”

“You don’t sound like it.”

“I just didn’t expect you to move on so fast.”

“It wasn’t fast.”

“It felt fast from where I was standing.”

“You weren’t standing. You left.”

“I know.”

“So why call now?”

“Because I’m afraid this is the last chance.”

“For what?”

“To say goodbye properly.”

“You’re doing fine.”

“No, I’m not.”

“You don’t need permission to let go.”

“I think I needed yours.”

“You always had it.”

“Then why does this feel unfinished?”

“Because endings rarely feel complete.”

“Will you miss me?”

“I already did.”

“Can we start over?”

“No.”

“Can we stay in touch?”

“No.”

“Can you forgive me?”

“I already have.”

“Then why does that hurt more?”

“Because forgiveness doesn’t mean return.”

“I understand.”

“I hope you do.”

“This is goodbye, isn’t it?”

“Yes.”

“Okay.”

“Okay.”

“Take care.”

“You too.”

“Goodbye.”