I cackled devilishly

And I dashed behind the bushes

“Ready or not,

Here I come!”

I crouched down, giggled

And he ran to the bushes

Parted them

Smiling that toothless smile

“Found you!”

And seven years later

I sob, distressed

And I run into the tiny bathroom

“I’m _not_ coming out there!

I am not, I am not!!”

I crouch down, bury my face

And he’s not here to comfort me

He’s left us

Hanging my head low,

Trying not to trip on my black dress

I whisper to myself,

“Here I come.”