Joelene

The kiss was done right this time.

And I think I was in love.

And when Mamaw and Papaw

came home later on.

Baskets filled with fruits

and vegetables,

I was more talkative

than ever before.

I helped them unpack,

helped Mamaw put the stuff away.

Papaw laughed and shook his head

when I fought to take his coat,

and he said:

“someone is in a good mood.

What did Eric feed you on here?”

Sloppy kisses and wet tongues.

Then Eric came around

the bend of the hallway.

And he only chuckled.

But when Pops looked away,

he sent me a wink.

And I melted.

Oh, we’re keeping secrets.

No. Problem.

All evening

while we made the cheesy pasta

and strawberry smoothies,

Eric kept giving me

coded gazes and subtle smiles,

and I ensured to sit awfully

when Mamaw wasn’t around.

Because if he thought I couldn’t see

his eyes going under,

then he was gravely wrong.

The week went on like this.

I found some new toys.

And they were more fun

when I thought of Eric.

They were addictive.

And so was Eric.

He’d steal moments

and spend time with me

whenever he could.

In the barn.

In his room.

In the horses’ stable.

In the living room

when my bring-ups weren't home.

Eric and I

couldn’t get our hands

off each other at all.

And did I like it?

Yes, I did.