In those early years
when possibilities
lined up on their doorstep,
they saw themselves
roaming streets of Italy,
savoring pasta,
sipping Frappato.
They saw themselves
walking streets of France
in a cloud of romance.
They saw themselves
driving roads of Ireland
flanked by lush green
countryside.
But over time, they learned
plans can be navigated
only so far
before life takes the wheel.
They haven't sipped Frappato
or walked warmly
in that cloud,
and they haven't
witnessed
that countryside…yet.
But over mountains,
through down pours
and gusty winds,
and days when
sherbet-colored skies
lifted their spirits,
their fingers remained
intertwined.
Not only has love
in their hearts prevailed,
but cravings still carbonated
for each other's company.
It seems they have traveled
the trip of a lifetime.

Lauren Scott (c) 2022