how they ask for affection
with such ease. Frankie
leaned her head on my leg
and I loved her in that instant,
that old big bitch.

It’s a shame
I can’t go around
and lean my head on someone
without being accused of harassment
or risking deportation. No, I’ve got to
cut my hair, brush my teeth, put on clothes
that hide my belly, fake confidence, and
speak the right thing at the right time.
And after all that (and more),
when I am lucky enough
to meet a girl I want to lean on
there is usually a boyfriend
or Frankie.