Toxic Love

by Mike Berger Looking back--- when did our love turn toxic? I should have known it wouldn't work out. She was fun and giddy but without any substance. Drawn to her and her coquettish ways, I fell in love with a wisp of smoke. Those flashing eyes now drip hate. She doesn't talk any more; she snarls. She detests it when I read. She must be the center of attention. There are things in this world beyond the mental cubicle where she resides. Blinded by a desire to have her, I couldn't see that the whole world revolved around her. It was I, I, I and never we. I refuse to fight anymore, so I'll turn and walk away.

CONFIDANTE

by Mike Berger There is one who knows me too well; She knows all of my secret wishes and desires. She listens as I revealed myself. I speak of dreams of owning a new home and a 944 Turbo. As I peel back the onion to my inner core, she listens with a wry smile on her face. She knows my life story backwards and forwards, and my darkest desires are safe with her. She's the rock of my salvation. As I leave, she shakes my hand. My loan has been approved; love that credit union manager.

Meet Mike Berger!

Author of two books of short stories. Three humor pieces have won awards. Writing poetry for less than a year. Work has or will appear in twenty five journals. These include AIM, Still Crazy, First Edition, Stray Branch, and Mid West Quarterly, Evergreen and Krax.

To Her Beauty

by Mike Berger Her eyes glistened in the candlelight. Her skin was smooth against her vermillion dress. Her smile was subtle; Mona Lisa like. Her lips were full, as she drank the red wine. Her auburn hair caressed her cheek. The sparkle in her eyes radiated through the room. She touched my cheek and pulled me close. Her warm breath filled my ear… She softly whispered, "Please pass the garlic bread.”