"Relief"

Today I found myself
overwhelmed
tears clinging to the edge
of the lid
on the verge of spilling over
tiny droplets on
the crest of a wave.

I’m not sure
if they swelled

in awe
at the memory
of your smile
filling the frame
as the light danced across
your chestnut cheek
or simply in
bittersweet relief
at the realization
that your face
has erased hers
in quiet moments
when I’m alone.