You lay your bike
against the fence
and headed towards

the farmhouse
but Monica came out
of the house

and stood in front
of the door
where you going

with the boys?
she asked
the cinema

you replied
what are you going to see?
Kissing Cousins

going to see what?
it’s a new film
with Elvis in it

you said
looking beyond her
towards the house

I’d like to come too
she said
will they let you?

they might
if you say I can
that’s up to your mother

you said
but if you said
you’d like me

to come along
I’m sure she’d let me
she stood gazing at you

her arms folded waiting
another time maybe
you said

why another time
why not now?
I’m 17 you’re just 14

don’t think your parents’d
be keen on me
taking you out just yet

what do they know
she muttered
the door of the house

opened and her mother
came out of the door
hope you’re not

bothering Benedict
she said
the boys will be out

in a moment
she said
turning to you

and giving Monica
a stern stare
ok

you said
I’ll wait
by my bike

Monica pouted her lips
and followed you
as you walked

to your bike
in you come
young lady

don’t want you pestering
the boys’ friend when
they come calling

and so Monica turned away
following her mother
another daydream falling.