put a lid on the pot and steam for approximately 20 minutes

Stewing. Mostly listening to music. Then the mood strikes and I dial. Selfish and childish with each click. I know he’s at work, and I sit cross-legged on the floor in front of the portable stereo. Tape queued. Wait for the tone. Wait for it. Then I hold the receiver to the speaker and allow every last note of James Taylor’s Fire and Rain to trip through the wires. And I hope when he gets home – the feeling I’ve got will suddenly be transported into his body – the compression of the chest – the shortness of breath – a twinge between the shoulder and neck – the knowledge that there’s someone else out there who’ll hold you and let you cry – even without good reason.