First published in Shamrock #30 in February of 2015. Originally written in March of 2009, with twelve rejected concluding verses before settling on the final verse here.

In my distraction, I mistakenly dial the wrong number, but hang up before anyone answers. My eyes grow wide in momentary mortification. Seconds later, the phone rings.
        “This is 9-1-1—did you have an emergency?”
        “No,” I explain. “I accidentally pressed the wrong speed-dial button. My apologies, but I’m glad to know you called back.”
        I hang up the phone, and wonder why it’s so hard to call you. And if I did, whether you would ever call me back.

                pink buds
                on the cherry
                beginning to show