You Can Pretend

C. Renee Kiser

                   Oh darling!

When you scream for me

to untie you,

it tends to make it funny

Are you sure

I could manage it,

knowing I'm not good enough, honey?

Just lie back,

no one can hear you

everything will be just fine

Close your eyes

and say your prayers

You can pretend it's not the last time

Here's a mirror

for you to kiss good-bye

the one you love the most

Quit screaming

seriously now darling,

pull yourself together for one last toast

as no one I know deserves this more...