for b.

I tried calling you by my high school nickname

as if a planned attack could impress your charisma onto my shoulders and back

as if you would be anything like you were promised to be

as if the prayers you offered up for me would be soft in the soil.

Once, at a time of day I can’t remember, I held your face with both my hands.

Has the intonation of your voice always been so young and wanting?