It's funny how we used to joke about birthdays,
How "You're not invited to mine" was our favorite tease.

That time had long passed.

When her birthday finally came,
She waited—eyes fixed on midnight—
For that one text.

She.
The girl who had his home phone number stuck to her wall
Because he didn’t have a cell.
Who called when he was sick,
Felt the world dim on the days he wasn’t at school.
Gathered his forgotten sweater,
Found warmth in no hug but his.
Loved him more deeply than she thought possible,
Stayed alive just to see his face again.

She.
The one to end
The relationship,
The friendship.
The connection.

The girl who stupidly still hoped-

The text never came.