I see you sitting on the wall.
Hair burnished by the evening
summer sun. 
Legs dangling.
Brow furrowing.
Wishing to be older.
 
I want to unpick
the worries embroidered
in your eyes.
Comfort you with truth:
 
A part time job will pay
for the school uniform.
Don’t worry.
 
Your first date
is round the corner.
It will last three weeks.
You will be friends
for years.
 
Your circle will change
and grow.
The best will stay.
 
You will fall in love.
Twice.
They will love you back.
Still.
 
Dad… will sort itself out.
One day.
 
I brush your hair from your eyes,
tears from your cheeks.
I love you.
You’ll do fine.