Suddenly, maybe not so suddenly, it's not there. The old spark that ignited short conversations, which told you that friendships could last more than just time and distance, has diminished to the point where little can be seen of it. There seems to be no fun, intrigue, even interest.

Reduced contact may have played a part. But then, frequency of verbal exchange should not, and does not, determine the strength of a bond which is supposed to transcend superficial relationships.

Was the past an illusion, the concoctions of a delusional and searching mind? So many questions, so few answers. Where an understanding that once existed, smattering of nods and almost-tiresome acknowledgements now stand. Like watching an empire crumble before your very eyes. Except, it's your own empire.

Maybe this is how people move apart. The natural course of things? Well, I don't like it much.

Wish the years could be rolled back, moments played out slowly. Even the bad ones.