I’ve known this road
for more than miles ~
though never
went much further
than the county line
a sweeter rhyme
than ever you and I

a stand of pine
that keeps your name
with mine

hold me back
within these ways
I’ve come to need their
heaven ~
moments here the same
as once you were

a penny lost
to tell your tales ~
reason keeps me guessing
as hands to trace
the places
that I love

late night chats
and take me backs ~
wool and lace
and flicker
chapters split apart
and sewn again

lilac faded flowers
ribbon in the trees
as boots beneath
the window
comfort me

spare the rest
this time to be ~
I need not words
to listen
for promise
might be gone
before the night

speak not long
of hanging on ~
but let your truth
be kisses ~
worn into the morning
of my rise

…