The sun returned with a vengeance.
The cold air was hanging on.
The headmaster took attendance.
Appeared that one of us was gone.
Some prayed for her safe passage.
Some cried for her return.
There was no meaning or no message.
Just a look of harsh concern.
There was a shuffle in the hallway.
And some movement at the door.
She said, “I’m late, but I’m ok.”
And she’s not missing anymore.
Dennis Mantin 
This is a quietly powerful and moving poem. Your spare, restrained lines carry real emotional weight, capturing fear, uncertainty, and relief with striking simplicity. The shift from collective worry to the gentle reassurance of her return feels deeply human and grounding. It’s a beautiful reminder of how absence can fill a room with dread—and how a single voice can restore calm. A poignant piece that lingers long after the final line.
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