11 drafts later you arrived

fully formed in many ways

for my editor’s red pen

to shape and coax you into the light.

​

I see she dressed you in a ball gown too,

You lucky gal!

​

The next time I see you

I will be able to pick you up

and hold you in my hands

Inhale the woodsy pulp scent

and trace my name on your cover.

​

The next time I see you

You will be real.

​

You were made

to live in other homes

be held by other hands -

to be loved and cherished by others.

​

I pray they be kind to you, my love.

​

I will think of you every day -

for you were carved out of my soul

and fashioned in my mind -

albeit for nameless others.