I was awake at 4am, and you were sick as a dog, my love. You tossed and turned, and all I wanted was to fight that illness off for you. But instead I lay in bed beside you, just holding you, wishing I could do more. You were still the most gorgeous man I had ever seen. I stayed up to make sure you were okay.

My hands felt your fever break. I let go of you only for a moment to get you a glass of water. When you felt my body move away, you desperately reached back for me, your hands narrowly missing mine, searching for me in the dark. I heard you say “Allie, come back.”

My hands found you quickly and firmly, my love.

You went back to sleep. I thanked God for you, and every moment we’ve spent together.

The sun is rising now. Your body is cool, and you’re sleeping soundly. I’m still holding you. I want you to know that I’ll always be here, that I’ll always come back, that I’ll always grab your hand when you need me. I want to tell you that you’ll never have to be alone in the dark again, and that I will love you forever.

Instead I lay beside you, just holding you, my love // submission #3.

I feel so blessed to be yours.

Fajr passed by as I dreamt on.
Zuhr was lost in the day’s work.
Asr got skipped as I sipped my tea.
Maghrib flew by as I photographed the sunset.
Isha was added to the forgotten list.

Now here I lay, tossing and turning on my bed, wondering why peace escapes me.