Back Porch Review 2020

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My mother left me almost two months ago.
She could not deal with the silence and
carelessness of my father anymore.
Though he is an improved man, she described
him as ‘too little too late.’
All the heart-wrenching songs that I equated
with past lovers became about her.
The house felt bigger than usual, as I felt smaller
than ever for my haven was relocated to a place I
visit for dinners and weekends
My mother doesn’t know how I’ve felt since she
left.
Neither does my dad, but I never anticipated
telling him either.
For now, his outbursts have subsided and kind
words have appeared.
But I still wait for the day he will say “I love you”
before I do.
And for the day I can talk to him about girls
without a fear of judgement.
But for now, alas, my haven is gone, and I’m left
to create my own.