as a teenager then later still swirling and unfurling

you would push strands of curly brown hair
between two fingers
staring absently thoughtful
you would lean
your elbow
on the car window
staring above your hands on the wheel
mind spinning

the multi track mind I inherited from you
spinning at least 5 tracks all at once
my exterior mask and pseudo fronts
do little to disguise my surprise
when

you would scream at me openly
two minutes later
whistle as you walk
sparkle when you talk
glistening gleam it would seem

the only time you slapped me that I recall
I sat down and put my arm around you
as you cried.
it would not please the spirits watching if
either of us lied.