I knew Tierney for over eight years

As we travelled from to Theale to London together

In the mornings accompanied by our coffees

And back again on the evening train

Our routines did not change

Interrupted only by holidays and sickness

And then one day he was not there

I feared the worst but was told by his neighbour

That he had moved to Australia with his secret girlfriend

Leaving this life behind

I often took at his empty seat on the 18:03

And wonder if he was right

As we all have dreams of leaving