I straightened my tie,
my noose of choice.
I surveyed the nerves,
boutonnières,
cuff links and best men
dressed then stressed
over punctuality.


I am late in my white dress,
my unstained reminder.
I rehearsed the vows,
poses, held my roses
and had my ladies
in waiting,
waiting.


I wait at the archway,
stiff, starched and
looking rented
for the occasion


I wait for my turn
to walk the plank,
the aisle spans oceans
and I am unsure.


I am unsure
but it is too late.
She sees my face and
searching behind
her veil for sympathetic
shared fear.


I give my father a mechanic kiss,
I twist and face my future.


I smile and wince,
I take her trembling hand,
I find her eyes,
I see my future.

**
I smile and wince,
He takes my trembling hand,
He finds my eyes,
I see no future.