always

i don't think you know this,
but i always brought her bread
before school.

just one slice,
whatever was fresh. 

i always wrapped it in wax paper,
tied it with blue string,
and tucked it into my lunch box
under the apple slices. 

always under the apple slices.

i know she loved it.
she told me every day.

but now she's gone,
and you're here.

instead of her.              
i like you quite a bit,        but not as much as her.
 i'll never love anyone
as much as i love her.

yet for some reason,
   
        i always bring you bread
before school.

just one slice,
whatever's fresh. 

i  wrap it in wax paper,
tie it with blue string,
and tuck it into my lunch box
under the apple slices. 

always under the apple slices.---maybe i love you too?