Shared Solitude

I was down. I felt so depressed, I was in need of solitude. I went to the bookstore to read a novel, as I always do when I feel like this. A new book from a favorite author! I sat in the two-seater cushion and started reading. You sat beside me. My bag filled with books between us. I didn't notice you at first, I was so engrossed in my book. I read my book, you read yours. You stood up and left. Still I didn't give much notice. You came back with a new book. The cushion dipped as you sat. I glanced at you, you seemed to be as engrossed as I was with my book. I move around in my seat, you didn't seem to mind. You got up to find other books, I didn't mind. Three hours, we sat beside each other in comfortable silence. I finished my book and felt so much better. I didn't want to leave, but my friends are waiting. I didn't want the comfortable way we sat to end. Because it made me peaceful, this shared silence. I didn't ask your name, you didn't ask mine. I got up to leave, the cushion shifted. You glanced at me. Sorry I have to leave.
Thank you. You might not know it but you made me feel better. You were a steady presence beside me. Thank you for sharing my solitude.