LXXX | Sermon

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The sun hasn't even set
when I deposit Rowan

at the doorstep
of her nameless chicken rice shop.

'Thank you,' she whispers

as if she doesn't want
the empty street to know

we're dating.

The tips of her ears
are red

so I know
she means it.

'It feels like it you were bored,
'but you put up with it
'because I was so excited.'

You were excited? I couldn't tell.

I brush hair from her face
and hook a stray strand
behind her ear.

Her eyes were shining all day.

'I learnt cool things today.'

Screw flattery.
I'll be honest about this.

'It doesn't start with that
'but usually every date

'ends with sex.'

She takes my hand.
It's soft.

'My world was so small before.'

She tilts her head.

'You're honest today,'
she comments.

I laugh
and lean in close.

'I want to kiss you, Rowan.'

I hear her heartbeat.

'Me too,' she says.

And I find myself
staring

at my reflection in dark frosted glass.

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