Is an amazing thing.
Too bad mine fails
almost immediately,
mostly because I totally
underestimated my father.
You’ve packed your things.
That’s good. I’ve loaded
the rest in the car already.
It’s full, but there’s room—
“No, Dad! Haven’t you
heard a single word I said?
I. Am. Not. Running. Away.”
He changes tactics, digs for
some semblance of tears.
You hate me. I don’t blame you.
“I don’t hate you.
It’d be easier if I did.
But I don’t exactly
like you right now,
either. It’ll take time
to sort out my feelings.”
Not to mention the details
of the last fifteen years.
Every memory now requires
careful reexamination.
but necessary, process
and once it’s over
I’ll have to let things go.
I can’t launch a future
by wallowing in the past.
“I really wish you’d change
your mind and try to work
things out here. There’s your
job to consider, and Zelda, and . . .”
As I watch, his demeanor
changes completely,
from injured pup
to rabid dog.
You’re a liar, just like your
mother. I know where you’re
really going. You’re backstabbing
me to take up with that cold-
hearted whore, aren’t you?
“No, Dad, I’m not.”
I sling a backpack over
each shoulder, hoping
he’ll let me reach the door.
He does, but as I open it,
he says clearly and purposefully,
I should’ve killed that bitch
when I had the chance.