Hollow Eyes

I could see the half naked, dirty boy on the stoop

We had just eaten brunch and were feeling rich as kings

The man standing next to the sleepy boy smoked

He threw down the cigarette as we approached

"Why isn't he dressed? My boyfriend asked.

The man picked up the small child and brought him to us

His shy, sleepy-eyed face looked at me

He didn't talk

"He likes women," the man said.

I realized we were standing beneath the food pantry sign

My full stomach felt guilt

This little half naked boy was waiting for something to sustain him

I had just gorged myself

I had everything I needed

This little boy did not

"Say goodbye to the nice lady."

The boy's hollow eyes followed me all the way to my car