saying goodbye (to friendship) by Caroline Levin-Cardenas (16, Florida)

we spent an eternity loving each other
through the eyes of others, 
our hands clasped only in our minds as we
basked in the warmth of lingering touches. 

keeping our secrets close 
to our hearts, our hidden truths served as
ivory shackles holding us back from 
taking the leap and bidding farewell to
familiarity. ​

---

i remember the softness under my palms when
they brushed against her satin cheeks, blush
blossoming across them as they cushioned
delicate lips, glistening red like 
apples on her porcelain skin. 

our faces wore shy smiles 
reflected in one another’s eyes, 
holding feelings unbeknownst to even ourselves
hen we melted in each other’s arms at long
last,
this time not letting go 
until she whispered against my lips
maybe we’re more than friends.