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Beneath the Covers. Hiding.

by John Arthur Lee

We giggle beneath plush covers,

like children camping in a backyard.

Our glistening eyes reach for each other,

our warm fingertips touch.

“Love you forever,” we say, teeth shining.

Yet forever is the problem,

and fresh memories reincarnate around us,

like spectral ghouls whispering of death.

Our only defense is a hug,

a pairing of our terrified heartbeats.

So, secretly, I beg for help,

while praying He’s real and willing to listen.

Eyes still joined, too frightened to let go,

we shiver and pull the warmth of denial over us.

And for the rest of night one, we almost forget
the doctor's solemn nod.