did you hear that
it is the sound of your heart
beating rhythmically with mines
while we lay

my head against your chest
your arms wrapped around my body
protecting me
because I am afraid of the dark you know

& holding me so close
that we become one shadow
underneath the glow of a half-moon
& my hair tickles your face

while your snores sing a comforting lullaby
solely for my ears
but I can’t sleep
afraid you’ll disappear with closing of my eyes

so I listen to your breath
sometimes it catches in your throat
& I lean closer
to make sure you are alright

& I watch you sleep
every now & again you jump
I shift in response
repositioning myself in your arms

you hold me tighter
& we stay like that
until I realize the morning sun
is peeking thru the windows

& I think I may have forgotten to sleep
too mesmerized by you
fascinated by the way you breathe in & then out
captivated with how your face has become peaceful

serene & beautiful beyond words
& I am anxious
restless beyond comfort
knowing that time is closing

& soon you will wake
so I remain unmoved
quietly inhaling your morning scents
then your eyes open

& catch my unflinching gaze
did you hear that
it is the sound of my heart stopping
the sound of a dream fading…