Author’s Note

Life can change in a heartbeat. I wrote this piece over the last couple of days because the world reminded me how fragile and urgent everything can feel—how fast a life, a home, a moment can turn to smoke.

Even in the chaos, even when fear and exhaustion weigh heavy, there’s still presence. There’s still breath. There’s still love.

This poem is for those people who occupy your heart even when everything else seems to collapse. For the ones you carry in your thoughts, your prayers, your wishes for safety and light. For my muse, her sister, and her family—I hope you feel the strength of care here, even across the distance, even across the noise of the world.

Sometimes, being present is enough. Sometimes, staying steady, keeping your heart open, and wishing well for those you love is all that matters.

Two Days
Poetry by Rowan Evans

Last-minute decision—
I moved.

My brother called.
Tuesday.
“Want to move on Thursday?”
“Okay.”
I packed my life in a day,
we made good time,
settled into the new place—
first night soft, quiet, simple.

Then last night—
one day in—
the world cracked open.

Sparks.
Flames.
A fist pounding the door.
“Fire! Get out!”
And suddenly everything I own
felt like smoke.

We stood outside for hours,
feet aching—hearts racing,
watching firefighters pour in and out,
chasing the glow behind thin walls.
Their boots thundered.
Their voices echoed.
I just stood there,
trying to steady my breath,
thinking how fast a life can turn to smoke.

Two days.
Two moves.
One body carrying
exhaustion and adrenaline
in the same heartbeat.

But I’m still here.
The walls are still standing.
And maybe…
that’s enough for tonight.

And even in all that chaos,
you never left my mind.
I carried thoughts of you,
your family,
and the prayers I’ve whispered
for days.

If you are interested in more of my poetry, you can find it here: The Library of Ashes