It comes out uneven
On the brokenness of my awkward voice
A bad joke
As usual
She doesn't laugh
We pass in the hall
And I make a remark
To lighten the gray of her face
As usual
She doesn't smile
After patrol,
We survey my injuries
At my own expense
I mock myself
As usual
She's unimpressed
In my room
I cradle a heart-shaped box
And curse the earth
As usual
She's not there
Outside her door
I hold my heart
And hope this time
As usual
That she won't laugh
