straight out of greeting cards.

Instead, I see a boy

about to shoot his father through the heart.”

“That’s why we’re partners,” says Bob.

“We understand how a lucky shot

can set you free.”

“Or imprison you for eternity,” I tell him,

“but that’s just me being optimistic.”

“Come on cowboy, let’s ride

and forget your toy pistol

you won’t have to shoot anybody this time,” I say,

as the car peels out of the lot at such high speed,

it rises off the street and we fly

like the body of a girl

hurled from an apartment building

into the murderous air.