I Howl

Through the darkness

Before I slumber

I hear the echo of your heart beat

And I howl

I feel the wispy breeze of your breath

At the back of my neck

And I howl

I feel your strong arms wrap around me

Like they always did

To keep me safe

But it is an illusion

Borne out of denial

And I howl

I howl in desperation

I howl out to the moon

Flickering its unholy light upon our bed

Where it used to illuminate our love

A love we swore would never die

But you did

You died

I howl against the loneliness

I howl against the grief

I howl against the longing

I howl in anger that you left me

I howl

--Julie O’Hara 2023

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