.

one last time i hear you breathe, peacefully asleep like you were all those years ago

when we crammed ourselves into your twin bed and we held each other until our bodies dripped with sweat.

this time it's cold and i hold myself, and i know i must go soon but still i latch onto your presence, though not conscious and distorted by the haze of sleep.

there is still love and sweetness, but resentment has bubbled over and tainted what was.

but one last time you call me

and we talk like old friends

and the taint fades away

despite the promises you make that we both know you won't keep.

how could i ever go? you sting more than your memory but i hold these moments/you so dear.

one last time i hear you breathe, you snore, your mother say goodnight, you say you want to see me again

and i hold it close

jar it up

lock it away in my heart

so it'll never end