these city’s streets are (still) too empty without you and even with millions of people brushing past me everyday it still doesn’t feel right to be here alone. we used to run down these same blocks at night, and swing our toes off of the brooklyn bridge while our parents argued into the early morning. the police officers knew us by name and tipped their hats when we’d walk by. i’d always curtsy and you’d smile and wave and we’d count drunken men staggering home on a friday night. i knew that we’d never end up like that. i walk home from school every day now so i can pass by the bakery we used to eat breakfast at (a blueberry bagel for you and plain for me), just so i can think of you once again. i hope you know that the woman at the hair salon had the same eyes as you but they didn’t twinkle like yours did. she smiled at me while she dyed my mom’s hair blonde. i just want you to know that ever since you left, i’ve been keeping track of the days until i can leave this town. we’d always imagined we’d be together when we get out. i just want you to know that i miss you and come back soon. france is too far away.