before Dad has the chance
to come knocking at my door after
everyone is back from church to ask me
how much or if I made sure to say thank you
to all of his friends who put something
in my hand
I roll down my windows
letting the highway air cool my thoughts
allowing the rough wind to pull all the questions
from shoulders and neck
turn the music up louder
cause it’s just me
text Dad to let him know I had to work
tell him I took an extra shift for college money
that I forgot to tell him and not to worry
that I realize it’s graduation weekend
that it’s no big deal because I know
everyone will be in bed early
knowing when I get back
from dance class
no one will notice the sweat
no one will question me
tiredly raiding the kitchen
and Dad will be in his room
pretending to sleep