Autumn Lake Goodbye

[Intro]
[Verse]
October air is crisp and cold
A story that has to be told
By this old dock where we used to play
Feels like a million miles away
Crinkled photos, faded smiles
We walked these shores for countless miles
Now the water's got a hazy sheen
Like a memory I've only seen
[Pre-Chorus]
And the mist is curling off the lake
For goodness sake
My voice begins to shake
[Chorus]
So long, my friend, the road calls you west
Put your heart to the test
I'll keep your memory blessed
This quiet goodbye, a tender ache
For old times' sake
Before the dawn does break
[Verse]
I hear a loon cry, far and deep
Secrets that the waters keep
Remember building forts by the trees?
Whispering futures on the breeze
Now your boxes are all packed tight
Beneath the fading afternoon light
This town won't feel the same, it's true
Without the laughter shared with you
[Pre-Chorus]
And the mist is curling off the lake
For goodness sake
My voice begins to shake
[Chorus]
So long, my friend, the road calls you west
Put your heart to the test
I'll keep your memory blessed
This quiet goodbye, a tender ache
For old times' sake
Before the dawn does break
[Bridge]
Maybe someday, down the line
Our paths will cross, a hopeful sign
But for now, this moment must suffice
Beneath these autumn skies
[Instrumental]
[Verse]
The viola sighs a mournful tune
Beneath the pale and rising moon
The piano's soft, a gentle plea
A final note for you and me
This weathered wood beneath my feet
Knows every promise, bitter-sweet
I'll watch your taillights disappear
And hold this feeling ever near
[Chorus]
So long, my friend, the road calls you west
Put your heart to the test
I'll keep your memory blessed
This quiet goodbye, a tender ache
For old times' sake
Before the dawn does break
[Outro]