i'll get the next time

he was
infamous for being frugal,
never having
money,
no wallet or credit card,
always depending
on others
for a cup of coffee a drink,
a sandwich.
it got old
very fast, but there was
nothing anyone could
do. he had money.
plenty of money,
but he'd rather spend yours.
than his.
let me take you out for your
birthday, he'd say.
bring a date.
it's on me. then you'd hear
oops, as he reached
into his pocket
or coat
when the check came.
can you get this?
i'll get the next time,
promise,
but there was never
a next time.