in a walgreens in a college town

a boy wearing that scent walked by 

suddenly I’m little again 

small feet on cold tile, watching fingers knot a tie

a stick of deodorant swiped quickly across an armpit

Safety is Citrus and clove and morning breath

Dark sky peeking through the window, getting ready 

 the old spice stick in his hand 

 Even at six, I knew that dads smelled special and didn't last forever.

Breathe in deep because he hugged just right

Red tubes line the aisles, reminding me of

comfort and after school movie nights

One deep breath in, but the boy is already gone

Pick up the phone, dial the area code

 “Hey Kiddo”