I press play and a stranger replies

I press play, and a stranger replies,

my voice twisted, a thin, breathy disguise.

Letters spill awkwardly, each pause a reminder,

of all the moments that leave me behind her.

How does my name sound, echoing far?

Like a ghost in the hall, or a wish on a star?

I cringe at the playback, a lesson unlearned,

as my heart sinks deep, the flame slowly burned.