Valentine

Not a red rose or a satin heart.

I give you our child.
It is a fragile bond swaddled in blankets.
It is new life,
Like a first kiss between lovers.

Here.
It will keep you up at night,
Like I did.
It will bring both happiness and grief,
Like I did.

I am trying to be truthful.

Not a cute card or a kissogram.

I give you our child.
When they grow up, they grow with you,
Loyal and forgiving,
For as long as you live.

Take it.
It’s tiny fingers close about my engagement ring,
Long since removed.
Alone.
It will never leave you,
Unlike me.