Fallout

The friend

I kissed

shows up

the next morning.

I had no idea

he knew where I lived.

When I open the door

he falls through

clings to me

like he’s been drowning.

I’m forced to decide

if it’s better

to be honest

and confess our kiss

was only a tasty diversion

from BMX bikes

or see how this feels.

He is

smart and sarcastic,

cute in an oddball way

but likes me so much more

than I like myself.

I take the path

of least resistance.

We date.

He does

such nice things for me

installs speakers

in my Cordoba

and gives me back rubs

until his hands are so tired

he has to ask

if I mind if he stops.

I let him unbutton my oxford

as we kiss in his elderly parents’ den

after their bedtime.

He is good at kissing,

but I block any move

to unhook my bra

my twin elbow goalies

guarding bloated breasts.

He doesn’t even try

my Jordaches.

Maybe because they’re

tight again.