After The Show

After the show, I waited in the wings for you,
Watching the curtains twitch in the draught
And feeling that cold brush through me too.
I watched the last laugh leave via the cavern door,
Happy couples, friends and lovers, mothers, daughters, arm in
arm;
I watched the ushers turn the lights off,
Pick up dropped programmes, sweep the floor
And I shivered in the weak green glow of the exit signs,
Flicking through the credits, looking for your name,
As if printed letters could prevent me feeling left behind.
I stood there for near two hours, anticipating
Being swept up in your arms as I showered praise.
I waited in the wings for you, and I'm still waiting.