Encore

One last sweep, from the lights up to the seats in front. One last look at the stage that held everything together and at the curtains that hid the truth. One last step off the steps leading to the orchestra. One last bow.

Or so she thought.

Inside her head the crowd is still silently appluading, the music still playing and the lights still burning. Inside her head, the lines are still alive and songs are still dancing. Inside her head he's still holding her, one final embrace before the final kiss. One final moment of drumbeat and sighs, one final signal for the curtains to drop.

That's but inside her head...for in her heart, the curtains have long been drawn. The crowds have long gone home. And the music have long fell on silent ears...