Hustle and Bustle and Forgetful of Things

Through two glass doors
we weathered the cold
wind beating our faces.
The spaceship not far
held warmth; waited.

I noticed something missing
as we walked further on
looking over my shoulder
I pressed on, assuring
I too wouldn’t be left behind.

The store kept him hostage
though she never saw.
What a mother she could be
had her head been screwed on.

I sat in my seat, buckled
my belt as she hurried to leave.
Does she really not see
the vacant seat beside me?

As she started the spaceship
and she pressed on the gas
I looked to the store,
began to utter,

Mom, you forgot Sean.
She didn’t believe
so we continued on.

What did you buy?
she finally asked him,
no answer replied

till she saw out the window
to her surprise, a young boy
standing, searching for his ride.