The Conversation

I told her I wouldn't be home this weekend
"Is it work, dear?"

"No." I offered no additional explanation
And I wasn't going to lie.

"I didn't think so. Is she a young woman?"
So this was to be the conversation.

"No, just a little younger than we are"
Watching her eyes, no tears, she's known for a while.

"Well, at least I'm glad of that, I would hate..."
"You know me better than that."

"Are you planning to leave me? "
"No, I won't ever do that, we both need each other."

"And that won't change unless you tell me to go."
I held my breath.

"Have you told her she can't have all of you?"
"Yes, she knows that."

"But I've lost a part of you. There was a time
That you lost a part of me. Don't look so surprised."

"I thought you knew at the time.
But you have all of me back."

I was surprised.
And then indignant, then angry.

"When? Who?" Scowling, harsh.
"A few years ago. Ben."

"He was very flattering, I was very curious.
It had only been you since we were teens.

And is this really a time for you to be angry?
While you are going to be with someone?"

Long pause. I have more of a reason, a better reason
The only real reasons are selfish. "No."

She kissed me, a little smile. "I want all of you back"
She went back to the dishes