It’s been 203 days
since I’ve had Dr. Pepper
with your lemon in it.
The first weeks
I had to hesitate at sit-downs.
Now I’ve upgraded to the
permanent taste of Cherry Pepsi
with a slice of independence.
I hope you still ask for
a water with a lime
instead of lemon.
And I hope when
they still bring you
lemon water you feel
my absence, and it
stays with you
when you leave our booth
because I know you still sit there
pretending I never did.
Without a place
for your lemon slice,
you have to grit and bear.
How does it feel.
I hope that acidic taste
stains your mouth
and reminds you of me.