[ Maybe it will be easier to begin like this. Close, but in a way such that she does not have to see his face, nor he hers, looking at the story of some other lovers in her hand.

Softly: ]

We have not spoken of it, what happened after. After you left that night, or the days and years that followed.

I know bits and pieces, but so few from you. Even fewer that did not come with some amusing story attached. I think I have been afraid to ask. To hear. But— I would like to. When you would like to tell me.

[ A breath, self-steadying. ]

If you would like to tell me.