she’s smiled from the sidelines,
watching as you waved her away and soared to the sky.
she’s hoped you remember her
as you spread your wings farther,
kissing the wind and touching every cloud.
you come back again,
welcomed by open arms and a girl unmoved.
she’s wondered if you notice
how hard her knees have buckled.

how does she tell you she misses you
without making a scar on your absence?
how can she keep composure as the minutes pass,
broken and jagged
like the word “okay” feels
as it slides down her throat?
how does she use her quiet assurances
to explain she’s still at a loss for words?
how does she express what she needs to
without losing you in such a declaration?