the skill of keeping an old promise

i put some talent into an empty red and black box
that once was full of checks,
then closed it with a rubber band and
placed it under my nightstand
just in case i might run out

everyone laughed at me
but you, and I hate them
still, I keep the box
and you nearby in case
i run out of everything

I heard you wanted to join me when I leave
and I remember how I promised
I'd take you, if you wanted to
come along.

I wonder if you'll still want to come
when you realize
I have no talent.