what is it about him
that's all people ask
how is he different
what sets him apart from the rest

usually she answers
saying something about his eyes or his hair
and for all the adults in the room
she adds that all his actions are debonair

it's in the quiet moments
when nobody's around
the tears fall from her eyes
into a sentimental pool on the ground

things aren't that way
not as special as they seem
she's disappointed with herself
the last one to strike out for her team

he's never there on time
and when he shows up, he's dressed like a slob
nothing is redeeming about him
he's one step up from dirty dog

she tries her best to hide the pain
too stubborn to admit defeat
she'd rather people know the lies
than admit the denial that surrounds her