New math

18
19
21
10


10?
You’re going in the wrong order.
Have you forgotten how to count?


Yes.
I think I’ve forgotten numbers.


10 is too small.
I know.


10 doesn’t belong.
I know.


Why 10?
Because he was there, and now isn’t.
​Just like the others.


But he wasn’t like the others.
10 is video games
Santa Claus
LEGO
Dress up


10 is not knowing the world is cruel.


10 is...
10 was.
Bright and lively and unfiltered
Like sunshine on a clear day
Warm and squint inducing


10 was