Three have come back to the bars, to the life.
I cherish each.
One cried real tears on my shoulder.
No more, she said with watery eyes, no more falling in love. She sobbed a bit, ran fingers through her hair then slid off my lap.
I go CR she said. I stared into saddened eyes.
Why do people always lie she asked.
Another is more attractive than ever.
A butterfly, she told me matter of factly. So I leave.
Mischievous, full tooth smile.
Maybe next time boyfriend not butterfly.
Where's pasalubong you promise me?
Climbed onto my lap facing me.
Wrapped her arms around my neck, snuggled her head under my chin.
Help find new boyfriend she whispered softly into my chest.
The last is all lithe sparkle and intelligence.
School was the promise.
Not enough money she shrugs.
Have to come back work.
Takes both my hands and stares over my shoulder into the mirror.
Tries on a smile that doesn't quite fit...
Hard to go school and then work she says, wriggling softly between my knees.
As always, I find it hard to breathe.
