[Verse 1 — rhythmic intimate vocal, steady forward pulse] The apartment stood empty boxes along the wall morning light resting on the key in my palm No picture, no lamplight no glass on a shelf only wind through the windows nothing settled yet From my velvet-lined pocket I lifted the case the diamond caught morning and lit up my face I placed the small box in the drawer I had found almost slid it closed then pulled it back out [Pre-Chorus] A different key a different light the same little motion as every other time [Chorus] Diamond you were always first (always first) Every key every door every room I stepped inside Diamond you were always first and I was always one step behind [Verse 2] Once there was summer a whisper, a yes a ring on my finger your hand over mine Then velvet around you and silence took hold I never once wore you but never let go Four views from four windows four keys in four halls four futures opening the same case through them all No one ever saw you no one ever knew but before I arrived there my hand went to you [Pre-Chorus] I thought I was keeping a piece of what was but in every beginning you arrived before I did [Chorus] Diamond you were always first (always first) Every key every door every room I stepped inside Diamond you were always first and I was always one step behind [Verse 3] I carried you downstairs the day still was warm the lobby all mirrors soft light on the walls Chrome-plated mailboxes rows of strangers’ names I didn’t read one of them didn’t choose where you’d stay I opened one small door as I passed through the hall you shimmered once then fell from my palm No note, no message no word trailing after one small sound of metal and nothing came back [Bridge] I waited in silence for weight in my chest for my hand to reach back and undo what I’d done For: Take it back now while you still can but my fingers stayed open in the light on the wall No name, no return no face, no reply only air in my hand and I didn’t close it The doors opened outward the street moved in light it flowed on before me and I moved with it [Final Chorus] Diamond you were always first (always first) Every key every door every room I stepped inside Diamond you were always first this time I kept walking my hand open at my side Diamond behind a metal door Diamond one quiet fall [Outro] The apartment stood empty the boxes still closed the drawer left open I simply walked past I opened one carton took out the plant set it down by the window with both of my hands The curtain lifted one leaf brushed my hand and trembled on softly in the morning air
