Penpal

I.

Blood is thicker than water.

Therefore:

Home is a four-lettered vacancy

transient

strangers suspended

in negative space.

Discourse steeped in bitterness

and the acrid aftertaste

fetter my heart, mechanical.

And I say this because I love you.

II.

Water is thinner than blood.

Yet,

Hope is born in promise

tangible and true

a thousand splendid suns

eclipsed by your warmth.

Secrets in blanket nest cocoons,

simple as chicken soup comfort,

soften my heart, reciprocal.

And I say this because I love you.