Unrequited

Masking tape stretches taut over stiff cardboard,

tick as it rips off the roll—exciting beginning:

Box half open

Eyes peer into clawing emptiness,

it demands fulfillment—expects it, like an

Empty heart

Bubble wrap settles between each marbled plate,

it cushions the bottom—acknowledging fragility—

Paper envelopes chipped glasses, mugs.

Suffocating?

The box becomes heavy, so quickly,

Muscles stretch, fray,

Chest burning—

You’re killing me.

I can’t create a box to put these feelings in.