Look not on his countenance . . . 
                      - 1 Samuel 16:7

It’s been many years & we haven’t been together 
for any of them. But you’re really helping me out.

I bought aligners online & they gave me bone loss
(permanent) in my front teeth. You hate that I did 
this to myself & never understood my need to fix.

I dieted, tried to be as skinny as a crescent moon. 
I dyed my hair ash blonde & donated my clothes.

We’re walking down a path through Painshill Park. 
I tell you about my wobbly teeth. They’re straight 
but also they could go black & fall out at any time.

You don’t say anything for a while. We slouch into 
the crystal grotto & you murmur into the purple—

                  I think you’re beautiful 
                 & I’ve always wanted to tell you.

Your voice is low. You’ve only ever complimented
women you’re sleeping with or related to. I bump 
my shoulder against yours like nothing’s changed.

It sounds like you look at me with the Lord’s gaze.
If I’d known, would I still be able to eat an apple?