Keep Them Closed

I close my eyes and

I feel the stubble of your two-day shadow

I close my eyes and

I feel your hand, calloused and gentle, splayed against the small of my back

Slowly guiding me through a maddening crowd to a quiet corner

I close my eyes and

I smell the cleanliness of your skin, the scent of vetiver and cedarwood, as you step out of the shower

I close my eyes and

I feel the beckoning heat and welcoming warmth of your body as you inch up behind me in bed, pulling me in tight for a bear's embrace, protecting, loving, reassuring me I am safe

I close my eyes and

I feel your hot breath against the back of my neck as I feel your heart's rhythm against my back

I open my eyes and

You're not

Here