Couples' Skate

Bright lights grow dim throughout the rink, An amplified voice then resounds: “Now boys and girls, let’s couples’ skate,” So, girls drop speed, coast off and stop While on, I roll, with all the guys— Some lag, they pause, inviting girls, Pairs slowly crowd the roller floor Though I just eye my current crush, A teensy blond with eyes soft green, I pass her once, subduing nerves, My thighs I swipe with sweaty palms, Then, arcing back, I spot her face Just lifting to some tenth grade lug; She shrugs and nods and takes his hand, They sway and roll and smoothly glide, Her face content and tempo light. With sinking heart and throat gone tight I sit and watch her ponytail: It sways and bobs with each dark lap, I brood and loathe her happiness.