At dinner that night
He comes in to eat
With his family
And that girl

I ignore him
When I go to the restroom
And I know he’s watching
Confused

As I leave the room
He’s at the door
“What’s wrong?”
He asks about my coldness

“Who’s she?” I say
In so many words
He sighs and smiles
“She’s my cousin”

My face goes bright red
And he opens his arms
For forgiveness

I fall in, so relieved
And embarrassed
He squeezes me
Then offers an introduction

Happy again,
I meet them, then
He meets my family
All charming

We join our tables
Fellowship and supper
Feasting and sharing
Friendship so sweet