I could use some fresh air

Opportunity is knocking
And I'm answering the door
That's been closed so long
The hinges have rusted


The fear that it will squeal as I wrench it ajar
Lodged in my throat
I can't say hello
Or ask why you've come


I have stories to tell
A voice grown hoarse from disuse
I couldn't recite them to myself
The endings all given away
Nobody else to hear
So I took a vow of silence
Even inside my head


I'm unprepared for guests
Cupboards bare
But for the crumbs he left behind
I've been living on stubbornness and steel
My body turned resolute and hard


I stopped the want
Denied the need
I ignored their calls
Didn't recognize the number


But I'm opening the door
And there's a bead of sweat
Trailing down my lower back
Because your eyes are open and kind
And I could use some fresh air