A Heartfelt Story

Ted and Karla
were sitting together
in their front room,
sharing a bottle of
the finest white Moscato
Aldi’s can give you
for 3 ½ bucks.

Karla had tuned in
a soft-rock station
on the stereo.
As they sat there sipping,
Ben by the young Michael Jackson
wafted through the speakers
and filled the dimly-lit room.
Karla smiled.
“I’ve always loved this tune.
It’s a heartfelt story
about youth and friendship.”

Ted considered
the color of his wine.
“Actually, this song
was recorded for a movie.
The movie was about
a kid and his beloved pet,
a super-intelligent rat
named Ben.”

Karla stood up
and put her wine glass
on the coffee table.
She looked at her man
like he’d just farted.
“Ted,” said Karla,
leaving the room,
“you’re such an asshole.”

It may surprise you
to learn that Ted
did not get
laid that night.