You showed me the different colors
of dragonflies,
their wings flashing blue and gold
as they skimmed the air.
You pointed out the ant mounds,
the wasps humming their warnings,
and the moths
that unfolded like soft flowers
from their chrysalis.
The tiny world fascinated you,
and you invited me into it—
each creature a treasure
you couldn’t wait to share.
Before my panic attack
Tore it all away—
In the middle of the woods,
Past the water—
Where I swore you would propose.
Down on one knee,
Tossing stones that skipped
The waves.