The mask is slipping,

as soon as you cross the door.

I can see—

you’re hurting deeply.

I get it though.

I’ve been there.

Searching for someone to lean on,

a shoulder to cry upon.

But instead,

you only have your pillow

to absorb it all.

I try to act tough too,

hiding behind smiles and laughter—

but even they

become conflicted emotions.

Still, it’s okay.

I’m here for you.

I may be a stranger,

an unknown passerby…

But a stranger

who has fallen

into the same darkest corners.