Dragonflies

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.