For Aashay

I remember coming out of a

2 hour statistics lecture,

and into the canteen,

spotting this boy and

silently sobbing into his tshirt

catching a glimpse of the alarmed faces

all around the table.

I remember wiping my eyes

after exactly four minutes,

ordering a coffee and

taking it straight to class

because you have to time your breakdowns

in Third Year.

I remember the brave face he put on for me

when I'm willing to bet he was, in fact,

shitting his pants.

I remember quick looks exchanged at the table.

I remember having a hard time trying to put it into words.

In between sobs, I remember a head pat.

I remember a quiet, "you good?"

which was more a reassurance than a question.

I remember having to offer no explanations.

Not then. Not ever.