The Cuckoo's Call

by Lily Morton

He’s moved away from me and the gap is too wide to breach. It hurts but he isn’t the first to let go of me and I’m sure he won’t be the last.

I’m not used to anyone looking at me so thoroughly. Usually, they spare me a second and then their gaze moves on to someone more interesting.

“Maybe I should be a bit wilder.”

Everyone should have passion for their job.”

I like diminutives and nicknames. They indicate a kind of familiarity and warmth that I’ve always longed for in relationships.

Why shouldn’t I do something wild for once in my fucking life? Why shouldn’t I make some memories like everyone else?

I’ve never had anyone wait for me at home, eager to hear about my day.

I just wanted someone who would be my best friend and never abandon me.

“So, I will let you go, Wren, but only because I know I will see you again. Now hug me, child.”

I love the way you hug me so tightly. I’ve never had that before, so I didn’t know how it would make me feel so safe.

I love you for the way you make me laugh and the way you listen to me. No one has ever really done that before, so it’s a bigger gift than you know.

you can hold the world at bay for a while and strengthen his armour, so he goes out again with that indomitable sturdy nature that Wren has.

Margery winks at me. “Lovely-looking man,” she murmurs. “Is he the one you’re running away from?” I nod, and she smiles. “Well, Wren, I think I’d let that one catch me if I were you.”

When you believe in yourself, others will see it as clear as day.”

“Shall we go home, Wren? I feel like my cuckoo should make his own nest for a change.”

Wren is older now and much more mature and confident about what he wants, but some small caveman part of me wants to beat my chest in happiness that I am his first and only.