it's a cool day. gum trees turn liquid in the air above the roof. leaves dangle as though they are in water. leaves blink on and off. branches hold their place. this cloud bank holds its place, a form reaching back, stillness being the one you want to return to. his hands, his kiss. this cloud expanding upon you, and holding its form. we still call this summer. you put your backpack on. you check the sky and leave the house. from the bus stop the mountains are blinking on and off. we will call each other today, holding the phones up to our ears. and breathe, ready to speak, looking up.