THE GAMES WE ONCE PLAYED by Ann Christine Tabaka

THE GAMES WE ONCE PLAYED by Ann Christine Tabaka

Love is a Game that we once played upon the forest floor // hidden under branches of lust // shaded by desire. Wood Thrush gave her all, singing a mournful tune. I joined in her chorus as I lay abandoned by rusting trees. Wind tore me asunder while clouds closed in // your breath left me empty. I reached out // fingers piercing the storm // to draw you back to me. Promises of forever lingered on your lips as the sun set behind tree tops. Evening folded in around us // silence falling like a stone. The thrush did not look back as she flew south // leaving her hollow nest behind.