we sat on the back porch, drinking lemonade and listening to bluegrass. later, we strolled down by the marsh banks where the weeping willows serve as graceful filters to the warm summer sun. i remember thinking how nice and cool the shade was.

during the walk home, you stayed one step ahead and seemed to be challenging the sun to a race home. i paused on the gravel walk leading to the porch stairs to tie my shoe. as you entered the house, i heard the screen door slam and felt that only then did the sun deem it safe to set.

i ran inside without finishing the knot. i can't even see myself in this darkness, you know...