I held him close,
Tiny being,
Totally dependent.

Sheer exhaustion,
Utter love,
Total commitment.

Broken nights,
Endless worry
Hidden by a smile.

First teeth, first steps,
Parties, exams.
Eighteenth birthday vomit.

Student, degree.
First job, his foot
On the property ladder.

Wedding day.
His happiness
Brighter than the sunshine.

I hold him close
Across the miles,
Keeping my distance.

A new woman
Comforts him now.
I step back a pace.

Their mutual love
Gives his life meaning.
And, because he lives for her........

I love her too.