But there weren’t enough
of them to make the job
important and in that
way, make me matter.
IN THE BOLD LIGHT
Of morning I wonder if I count
for anything at all. Christmas.
It’s early here, but Texas time
is two hours later. I find my cell,
buried in the oversize bag
holding my clothes. Later I’ll call
Bryce to wish him a merry Christmas
and maybe share some special
news. But he’s probably sleeping.
Instead I call a familiar San Antonio
number. No answer. Worry punches
at my gut. But then I remember.
Aunt Cora doesn’t live there
anymore. Grandfather? Probably
with her in Austin. I have to
scratch deep in my brain to
find the right combination
to make the phone ring there.
Liam answers, too cheerful.
Well, hello there, world traveler.
Merry Christmas to you.
Nevada is hardly the world.
But I don’t say so. “Can I
speak to Aunt Cora, please?”
Liam puts down the phone