we speak of both the past and now
each giving the other time
thoughtfully considering
before responding
just like in the books…
we sit together watching trash
commenting on absurdity
and passing on the conclusions
in order to catch a few quick kisses
the world ceases to exist
outside of a place for our air and water
to materialize
14 years in,
I still feel this way –

considerate conversation
in traffic
watching irritated passersby
chuckling at the scene
hands resting
skin pressed but not pushed
as the comfort of touch
and the warmth of togetherness
fill the Kia
and replace the honking insanity
only a window pane away –

soft breath, steady and rhythmic
she waits for an answer
to the simplest query
as though I might pop off
with a cure to aids
or insight into the cern collider
I only say “yes”
as I do so hate telling her ‘no’
a smile passes her lips
inspiring mine to do the same
and we walk hand in hand
down the sandy shore
as is always the way –