Elise Love / 10
It used to bore me.
The minutes dragged on
and I’d wonder when I could leave.
We’d talk about the little things.
Thoughts of sharing strawberry shortcakes
at a place I’d never been.
Pictures of the cotton candy skies
from inside your patio screen.
Messages of my latest art
that you’d always keep.
Roses and azaleas that grew in your yard.
Peonies and cherry blossoms
that are still growing in mine.
Soft sands of beaches I’d felt
even though you’d never get to see.
Jewelry with butterflies that
I’d never have the heart to wear again.
Ice cream and frosted treats
eaten days before.
I’d slowly sip on
bitter herbal teas.
You’d have berry pancakes every Sunday.
Then show me pictures of
a young me in ballet tutus
that I had already seen.
The last look I gave before
I turned and left your street.
The blush still hadn’t left your cheeks.
Now all I have left is memories.
I feel so selfish for
ever having
wished away the time.
If only I knew back then
what I know now.
Without you in it, the world
is a little less
Pink.