With[out] Child

There was no child in her womb, Nor milk in her breasts. She told everyone otherwise Through the high school corridors. She never missed a day for a sonogram. Her body remained the same. Did she spend weekends sorting through the pastel Hand-me-downs for a child? I watched girls sobbing on talk shows, Doubting paternity tests. "He has your eyes! He looks just like you!" How could they sabotage dreams? Only once did I forget the necessary steps, Engrossed in my sweating and moaning. But I knew he wouldn’t be with me When I sweated and cried with child.