Dinner

I’m sitting at the table, Grilled chicken and barbeque beans Dance in my mouth— Their smoky flavor lingers on my tongue. I’m watching my family, One grandmother glares at another, My step-father is out grilling, My sister is asked about her summer— Our great aunt is fishing for information, And comes out empty handed. We’re cordial, But I feel like a stranger. The coffee is bitter— I forgot the cream. Carrots crunch in my mouth, They’re sweet. My aunt surrounds herself with family, Her family – correction, Her security blanket. They stick together Like honey. I wouldn’t mind some honey. Sour thoughts are kept hidden. I’m eating key lime pie, My family is like Key lime pie— Sour, sweet, And baked together.