“You are, and always have been, my dream.”―Nicholas Sparks

I woke this morning
To the sounds
Of birdsong
Outside my window,
The window through which
The sun poured its light
As if to guide me with
The promise of
Friendly well-being.
But though I heard the song,
And I saw the light,
It was only
My heart's hunger I felt
To have gently awoke
Wrapped
In your arms
And pulled close
To your body
As I watched you
Follow me to
Wakefulness.
But once again
You are not here
To catch me
As I tumble
From slumber,
To murmur
I love you
In your gruff
Morning voice
Before lifting me to paradise
With only your touch.

c. 2023