Stepparent's Shadow

We sat for dinner, a silence so thick,

awkward jokes floundered, their laughter fell quick.

They reach for connection, their hands slightly shake,

while I watch from the edge, caught between heartache.

An empty chair echoes the stories we weave,

a warmth that feels distant, yet hard to believe.

I see them try hard, like stars that align,

but the space where I’m standing feels starkly divine.

So I smile at their jokes, unsure of my role,

as love tries to blossom but struggles to grow.

In the shadow of laughter, I navigate space,

a new kind of family, a tender embrace.