Walking on Eggshells

There was nothing on the surface to put your finger on

To the casual observer there was nothing going on

Everyone immaculately dressed and on their best behavior

But I had inside information, I heard about it all

From the poison in the pantry to the blood on the wall

The switchblade on the sideboard and the bullets on the kitchen table

The stalemate, the ultimatum, long negotiations while the dirty deal was reached

And suddenly you realise that since the final compromise that led to an uneasy peace

Everyone's

Talking in whispers, minding their business

Watching their language, taking no chances

Keeping their heads down, avoiding the question

Walking on eggshells.

And after it was over at the scene of the crime

There was not a single fingerprint for anyone to find

The evidence had vanished and the cracks had all been papered over

A conspiracy of silence descended on the scene

An immaculate cover-up, complete smoke-screen

Everybody watch your backs, keep a lookout over your shoulder

The ending of a fairytale, a love that died, a dream that failed but was never laid to rest

And as for if the truth will out, there has to be some room for doubt but I wouldn't hold your breath

Everyone's 

Talking in whispers, minding their business

Watching their language, taking no chances

Keeping their heads down, avoiding the question

Walking on eggshells.

©Liz Simcock 2002