Steam on the lenses

Sip of hot chocolate.

Nose lingers above the brim.

Dwell in the simple things.

"Are you even awake?"

Hide a smile.

Slowly take my glasses,

  and polish the steam away.

"Of course."

The silence grows,

 and he knows what I am doing.

"Have you ever thought about meeting somewhere...."

On cue, 

  Anne drops a little arrangement in front of him.

  Cup of espresso, 

  and  a slice of lemon.

Glares for a moment,

  and somewhere a dragon hisses.

"I forgot the charm of the place."

We sit for awhile.

Refusing to complain.

Enjoying our individual moments of peace.

"You know why I gave you the job?"

The question hangs in the air,

like it does every year.

I have forgotten who it is supposed to encourage.

Younger reflection looks into my eyes,

 and echoes my tired smile.

"Yes, Dad.  The others couldn't"

My little Morning Star.

Reviews

[Chris Shaw]

Hello John. I am also having to learn to cope with steam on my glasses. That's where your lines took me. I can no longer wear a mask as well as glasses when I shop. I choose the mask and find myself fumbling along the aisles putting stuff in my trolley which I hope is what I want. Just read Lorrt's review. See he is experiencing the same.

Chris

[Jon Roggie]

The title overwrote the story, and I am to blame. I also understand. Niece almost had an asthma attack wearing one to walk around in the store.

[Lorry]

The title caught my eye Jon. As a spectacle wearer, wearing a mask all day means I'm looking throw a fog every five seconds just now. Not so much a casual wipe required, as windscreen wipers fitted on my specs 😀

[Jon Roggie]

I feel your pain. Not having the fancier mask, vision comes, and goes with each breath!