Diamonds

Where have you gone?

Here, try this

and you tilted the whisk

so that my palm would cover 

the tightly wrapped wire handle.

The batter bubbled

and dry ingredients absorbed

so that the milk disappeared--

I smiled, up at your beaming face.

Where have you gone?

Here, I'm here

and I had cried out in the night

so restless, falling through dreams 

you sat beside me. 

The following nights 

and hospital beds I occupied

so close you were, I knew

I couldn't fall even if I tried.

Where have you gone?

Here, is this it

and curiously turning over love notes 

so gentle, tears slipped beneath my lids

I noticed them sliding from your own.

It's okay to love him now

and I don't think you can help it

so some people come and go

but this will be yours to hold.

Where have you gone?

Here, you returned

and after months, you're unrecognizable

so malice was laced in every word

boredom etched on your face.

Did we break you

Needing so much, leaving you dry

depression, guilt, and anger

a combined effort, and you shattered.

Where have you gone?