August 28 Killing

I schemed our love like a criminal 
plotting the heist for your heart 
I rehearsed my speeches like a three-act play 
auditioning for the lover’s part 
  
But now the moment is here, 
scattered newspapers 
the desk messy 
ponytail and faded shirt 
see me where I am 
unmade bed 
failing to hide the dirty laundry 
no makeup or perfume 
only you – 
this raw perfection 
I could not dream to design alone