Mama stops by my
room this morning.
I would have kept the door
locked all night if Charlie
hadn’t banged on it,
shouting that she
needed to sleep, too.
I feel Mama there for a long time,
standing over me, watching.
She bends close and kisses my cheek.
I pretend I’m asleep,
but I guess she can tell.
I know you’re awake, Paulie, she says.
She waits, and I open my eyes.
Hers are dark and deep.
Want to have breakfast with me?