Elaine

By Natalie Morales

What is the bed’s corner
where Elaine
used to gasp
as I stroked her back
and wished for more.

Women cannot be phrased as a question.

What is the answer phrased as a
question that answers
nothing having to do with
its question.

What is the washcloth Elaine
used to rub
her feet within the bath
on days colder than this.

I asked if she loved me
and her reply was a question.