truth

A moment,
the eternity of uncertainty,
a hesitant look -
and the magic is ruined.
The trick exposed,
smiles fade.
They know what they want,
they know it cannot be -
not now, not yet, it was too soon,
yet too late to change.

So cozy they were,
hot chocolate in a cold room,
chicken-noodle soup on a sick day
comfortable, comfortable, comfortable like a pillow.
A pillow without sides, without edges,
nothing sharp
no sting
no excitement.

too late to change.

The ring remains in its case,
the stone as clear
as the answer.