Dorothy Turner
Couple

While the good weather lasts,
time for a break from work, a long weekend
away from the stifling city, beside
the sea where breezes cool. Now,
before schools release their swarms.
Each books time off, packs a bag
and plans the ideal way to spend
their few days' holiday. Her thought,
summer dress, painted toenails, bikini,
sunbathing then taking lunch
at a restaurant by the beach.
For him, shorts, socks, sandals, hat
to cover his bald spot, pints in a pub
with oversized screen showing sport.
Here they come, strolling arm in arm
along the promenade. Talking,
she on her phone, he on his.