Window of Hope

Morning light
Local Cafe
Window seat
Two chairs
One empty

Coffee steam
Paper unfolds
Waiting now
She appears
Walking past

Glance met
Soft smile
Hand raised
Familiar wave
Heart beats

He dreams
Chair filled
Her laughter
Across wood
Silent hope

Waitress comes
Friendly grin
No words
Always same

The routine

Fresh tea
Crispy bacon
Fried egg
Glistening bread
Quiet joy

Second pot

Golden toast
Thick butter
Sweet jam
Morning feast

Bill paid
One chair
Still empty
He leaves
Walking home.

Sun sets low
Night passes
Dawn breaks
Steps return
Same seat

Door swings
Steam rises
Two chairs
One hope
Waiting again.

By Paul Baldry (LongJohn)

Each morning he returns to the same café window, where sunlight, steam, and routine soften the ache of an empty chair. With every cup poured and every glance toward the door, hope lingers—quiet, stubborn, familiar. A simple breakfast becomes a daily vigil for the smile he dreams will one day sit across from him.