Like a shadow,
you were
never quite
within my reach

hesitant and
hidden
the sun pushing
you away

I've always seen
the Bayou in
the dimples on
your cheeks

All of
Louisiana in
the blink of
an eye.

I'm so afraid
that you feel nothing.
That your ribs hold
nothing.
That your shadowed
eyes see
nothing.

No love, no fault
no guilt or regret.

I am so afraid
and your
soul looks so fearless.

But they tell me
We're all afraid of losing
something