The first time I saw her
shivering from the rain
I knew
she was the one

Her perm flattened
her lipstick smudged
and still
her beauty reigned

As she sat before me
cigarette in hand
I asked
you want a light?

The spark ignited
glistening blue eyes
shining
through clouds of smoke

Her humor was dry
as the ten-cent toast
her smile
as smooth as the brew

We talked about war
wishing it would end
with hopes
our boys would win

I swallowed my fears
forced a tiny smile
I knew
I'd never see her again