your silhouette is framed by the afternoon light
I watch you as you take in the view
it is familiar but unfamiliar the angle new
a train emerges far below slowing as it reaches Waverley
Canongate’s tenements rise like castle walls
while beyond, the crags draw your gaze
across Arthur’s Seat to wintered hills

I walk across to join you
the city spreads between us like a map
of moments waiting to unfold
you turn and your smile draws me closer
as the winter light holds us
where shadows lengthen across December stone

[2023]