There is always more neon
if you’re sitting across the street
from the Burger King,

but I suppose that harsh light
would matter much less
to Emily if the diner had

her favorite kind of round ice
in a red cup. I have trouble
remembering why she thinks

I am one of the best ideas
she’s had. I do know; however,
the ice in her cup would make

her feel happy enough to leave
me with a smile. I keep
track of the places we eat

that have that kind of ice.
Honestly, I didn’t think I could
make her happy this long,

so I keep track of those things.
I’m doing this backwards,
I know, I know, I know.