House Ghost (Poetry)

They seem to know
when I’m in the place alone
and it’s not long before I hear
the creak of wood ... a sigh of air

I think they think
I need some company
a friendly soul in the vicinity
will stop me feeling lonely

Of course I know they’re there
despite the hush that isn’t quite
altogether silent ...
I almost hear a voice that isn’t mine

and nearly see a shadow move —
a hint that haunts the corner
of my eye from time to time
I’ve since grown used to it

though it was a little unnerving
at first until I realized
they mean no harm — I shouldn’t fear
my visitor but feel at ease with them

The arrangement is unspoken
and I take it now for granted
things continue just the same
notwithstanding plans to move away ...

I would invite my ghost to come
if I only knew their name