I Wanted the House to Stay Empty

Dear Delyara, I heard the key in the door and immediately wished for five more minutes alone. That sounds unkind, and maybe I am ashamed of how quickly I sometimes need space. But it wasn’t about the person coming home. It was about me not being finished being quiet yet. There are days when even love feels like another thing to respond to. I hope that doesn’t make me cold. I think it just makes me tired.