Seven Years

It’s been a while. Seven years, to be exact. It feels like it was only last week. I miss you, And I always feel like you’ll be back. I feel like it’s just a trip away, And you’ll open the door. I feel like it’s just a game of hide and seek, And you’re just really good at hiding. You’ll pop out of the trunk and say, “Surprise sissy! Did you miss me?” And I would hug you And tell you that I couldn’t find you. But… We couldn’t find you in time. We were too late. How did you even get in the trunk?? It wouldn’t open from the inside. You were stuck. What were we supposed to do, Alaster? You would be thirteen by now. You were so young. It should have been me, I’m eighteen. You had a promising life! I’m going nowhere. I’m torn without you, Brother. I remember one day, It was really hot out. We were playing video games inside, While sucking on popsicles. I went to get a second one, And there was only one left. I tried giving it to you, But you didn’t take it. “It’s okay sissy. I had enough. I mean, I already had the whole box.” And we put down the controller, And walked to the park. It’s been seven years. When will you pop out and say “Sissy! I’m here!” And giggle your little giggle? When will you hug me, And tell me that I’ll be okay? That I can defeat them, My demons? Alaster, Please, Come back. Mom’s a wreck. Nikka, Jessie, Gramma, We all miss you. Grampa is gone. He passed four years ago. I didn’t know him the way you did. But, I’m scared, Alaster. I’m scared that I’ll be next, Joining you. At least I’ll be able to be with you again, Six feet deep.