[Verse 1] You came with a key in a paper bag, A neat little answer to every ache. I kept the receipt with the names crossed out, And watched your hand hesitate. The room had a drain in the center tile, A lamp that swung though the air stood still. You said, “If it hurts, it must mean something.” I said, “Then choose what you will.” [Pre-Chorus] You drew one line where the skin gives way, Then asked me which side I would claim. I held your wrist till the pulse slowed down; You looked at me and said my name. [Chorus] Turn the key, but leave the door, Let me know what I’m asking for. If the sweet and the sore share the same deep vein, Stay beside me while I learn the name. Turn the key, then wait for me; No vow is true without room to leave. [Instrumental: jagged guitar figure, metallic percussion] [Verse 2] At dawn, the hallway smelled like rain, Your coat was folded across a chair. You held the cup with both hands still, As if the warmth could keep you there. I found the mark where the wire had pressed, A red half-moon beneath your sleeve. You said, “I wanted the edge of it.” I said, “Wanting isn’t the same as need.” [Pre-Chorus] You took the key from the paper bag, Set it between us, teeth turned down. For once, the silence did not ask Which one of us would wear the crown. [Chorus] Turn the key, but leave the door, Let me know what I’m asking for. If the sweet and the sore share the same deep vein, Stay beside me while I learn the name. Turn the key, then wait for me; No vow is true without room to leave. [Bridge] You can keep the room, the lamp, the lock, The little ritual we dressed as fate. I want your hand where I can see it, Open, empty, able to wait. [Pause] [Final Chorus] Turn the key, but leave the door, I know what I’m asking for. If the sweet and the sore share the same deep vein, I can choose, and choose again. Turn the key, then let it be; Love is the hand that leaves me free. [Outro] The key stayed cold between our hands. The morning came. We made no plans.
