By a fountain in Columbus, Ohio we sit side by side
listening to a jazz band. Recently acquainted we came
to the festival not as dates but, as we both told ourselves,
friends. The Columbus skyline is a perfect backdrop-the
 
sky so blue and wide, dotted with puffy clouds, the yellow
sun sparkling off the water, dancing in the windows of
downtown buildings. It is a perfect summer day but the
only heat I feel comes from your body so close to mine
 
and your blue eyes, bluer than the afternoon sky. My heart
is doing flip flops sitting this close to you as you study my
face, my smile, as if it were a memory you were making
to keep. The crowd around us is clapping to the music,
 
chattering, laughing… but all fades into the background
so intent am I on what you are saying I find myself leaning
into you, surprised that you are leaning into me. A few
people get up to dance and you hold out your hand, but I
 
am too shy for that. Instead, I toss my hair over my shoulder,
laugh at something you say, your smile so warm and inviting
I want to stay here forever, this close, under this perfect sky,
as the band plays on, as you look at me with those blue eyes.

Betty Bleen
www.toocutetoboop.com