A Baby In The Ocean

I take you to the beach.
“We’ll play in the sand later“, I say
“Let’s get in the water.
The sand will be there all day”
You’re hesitant.

So, come with me, you do
Reluctantly, I might add
The cool wetness goes between our toes
“See hun, the ocean isn’t bad.”
You’re relaxed.

Slowly, holding your hand, I walk us in a little more
Your bathing suit, a two-piece Tweety in a fuzzy baby pink, reflecting on the shore.
The waves that come, lap at our bare skin.
I take you out a little further.
You’re excited.

By this time, our necks are wet
From the tide crashing around us
I look at you while you look at me…
Fearfully.
You’re scared.

“Close your eyes tight and take a breath in
I hope, my baby doll, that you know how to swim.”
‘You won’t let me go, right ba‘cause I donno how.’ You ask.
“Never. I‘ll be with you forever.” I lie.
You’re trusting.

I drag your little body under with me
And I go back on my promise
I let your hand free
“Goodbye, darling. I love you.” I think as I float back to the surface, leaving you there.
You’re…nothing.