A machine. Press whatever to leave a call-back number.

-

I finally picked up the phone
& dialed his number
all eleven digits
with my thumb pressed over the earpiece to muffle the mechanical beep of the keys being pressed

I didn't know what I'd say when he answered—
if he'd answer—
but it didn't matter.

it always seems to delay forever
before it starts to ring
& I was (almost) excited as I listened to that silent void.

it finally started to ring,
but it ended with
your call has been forwa—click.

as I hung up,
I realized,
I didn't wait for you have reached
DICK
please blah blah blah.

That part always makes me laugh.

Maybe I'll call again to hear it.

(why do I even bother calling;
he never answers anyway.)