i can tell when you kiss me

that you want to, but

you hesitate as if i will spit

in your face.

i don’t know who last gripped your hands,

battered you with words,

held you when you got too high

.

i can see the pieces of your body

cracking off, letting light free

bit

by

bit

.

your fingers search for mine in the dark

when we’re driving, 

growing warmer each time.

(11/12/20)