2/17

Once you saw the preacher's son holding hands
with your own. The two sat on the swings
talking in hushed voices.
Without thinking,
you snatched the phone out of its cradle
and called the pastor.
He came with his wife to fetch his son.
The boys jerked away when they saw the couple
approaching over the hilltop, but it was too late.
It was then you noticed your son's eyes.
He understood. He was trembling,
and you began to suffer regret.
Years later, you remember his tears
as the preacher shook his fist.
Even at this moment, your heart
is going too fast; your hands sweat.