It’s just five quarters
Maybe twelve dimes and a nickel
Or one of your green slips and some loose change

They said you should have searched between the cushions
Or inspected the back section of your book bag
You asked a friend instead

“I love you”
Said the rushed handwriting of a ballpoint pen
Reading the words left a sweet smile
Which faded after the notice of blank boxes

Red-Friendship/Admiration
White- Love
Red left me wondering

“I love you”
Said each careful letter of a felt-tipped pen
Reading the words left a subtle smile
Which faded after the notice

Of my green slip and some loose change