We’re Just Friends

Jess Norris

 

I woke with beads of sweat curling on my forehead

to you by my side breathing lighter than the air around us

I briefly touch your hand then pull away recalling what you tell them

we’re just friends.

 

I ceased listening for a while when I became lost in a sea of blue

your eyes have always been my favorite shade of the ocean

I forgot what we were discussing when my mind wanders to why

we’re just friends.

 

You are my favorite partner to laugh with and slow dance the night away

I’m afraid of being so close that you can hear my tell-tale heart

when another man asks if he can whisk me away for a ballet all you say is

we’re just friends.

 

Women are fond of your handsome beauty

and question the air between you and I

my painful answer tastes like lead on my tongue

we’re just friends.

 

I long for that day that will never come

your heart would open to mine and finally our worlds collide

but for the time being and probably for always, you and I?

we’re just friends.