Finn was there

Finn was there

 

He forgot his lunch, again
Almond butter, sprouted wheat, sliced apple, peeled rectangular carrots

My brows entwine without my notice; he notices

Feeling reckless this morning, with words, I say to him: “maybe I will come back”

The turquoise Island Explorer with rainbow fish slouches on the kitchen floor

ErrGG!!!! I decide to take it to him, but only right before lunch

Perhaps a bit of lunch bag anxiety will help him remember, next time

I pedal back up to the gate, but kids are on the playground

Are they recessing early?
Whoops! Nope…I screwed up

There he is, sitting on the wall 

Focus on clasped hands

I step behind home base to intersect his gaze

He brightens, instantaneously, but then, becomes preoccupied…

He darts in the school, half a breathe, gasping “Gotta meet Finn”

Jogging behind I catch him, he exhales “He’ll be here”

 I am confused…. "Why are you meeting him here, in the hall?” “Zenko?”

He’s getting me.. something…

 I envision the possibilities…

Pilfered pokemon cards, wadded up toilet paper bomb, razor blades,

Here he comes… running 

I hear kindergarteners scamper outside

Inside this hall, the clandestine meeting spot is Ms. Marguerite’s door

Finn sees only Zennen

Tousled curls with beads of moisture, cheeks flushed

A locked fist opens, revealing two strawberries

One white, another with specks of red

Lifted, from the school garden, without permission

For a buddy, for hunger pangs

Unassuming eyes, bright blue, shine on us both

Finn smiles, slightly

Zennen reassured, remarks calmly, “Oh, Thanks, Finn”

The gift is accepted, all pangs lost

 I was late, but thankfully, Finn was there

(Not our Finn, Ms. Marguerite’s class 2011/12)