By Kathleen Holliday

For Daphne

I hoped to burst into leaf
(Having read it worked for her)
My toes sunk deep into brown carpet,
Arms branching toward the ceiling –
A little green,
A thicker skin.

Did she turn in time
To feel his arms surround a slender bole –
Embracing her still-racing heart?

I believe she was the only one
who got away.

Copyright Holliday 2013