Shirley's Dishes

 

She often found herself washing up 

at one in the morning, for she'd never 

 

allow her guests to help, though did

once let me dry, when he had to go 

 

to a meeting, for that couldn't be left

till next day either. I wish now I'd

 

bought her that tea towel for her birthday 

and not the butterfly scarf I decided on

 

instead. I'm told her last words were

I must go and wash the dishes as she

 

forced a smile, but meant it's time to go. 

Time for her or time for them? Both.