I remember picking the intricate beading on the waistband to my dress
The loose thread was annoying me
The pink chiffon enveloped me
I felt like a stupid hibiscus flower

My eyes stung
No.
Not from mother-of-the-bride like tears, happiness and pride brimming in the corners of my eyes
From spring allergies
My eyes itched

I don’t recall
The way Uncle Stevie looked and smiled at Rachel while dancing
____ I dared not call her Auntie then
It probably was a pretty decent look and smile
I know he loved her
I wore that smile when my Uncle Stevie would come visit
and he would bring us presents
Like exotic coins from his travels
and sweet fruit
And let us drape a blanket over his long legs
To make a fort

He has two children of his own now