“Painful Hypotheticals”
By Ashley O’Hare
Lately I have been thinking of
those first dates
that never made it past the planning stage.
It used to be fun-
imagining the look on your face
when I confessed my feelings
with a hurricane’s grace.
I had hoped you would agree-
that your ideal partner was me.
My heart was stronger then.
Now I have no capacity for hope-
I am overfull with dread of another “no.”
Sometimes I wish I never crossed your path;
how effortless it would be to sleep
without seeing your face.
Then I remember how my heart fluttered
and I wish I could thank you
for the once in a lifetime experience.
ashleyohare 