Longing

by Jaime Lee Moyer

I don't lie easy in our bed,
Tucked against your chest like
A pearl in an oyster shell,
As if I belonged,
As if the need to feel
Your breath soft on my cheek,
Your fingers trailing foxfire
On my skin was not insane,
A longing that could doom us both.

You walk the dream roads
In darkness and moonlight
Gathering what allies you can,
Searching for warriors condemned
To wander bone strewn moors
By misdeed or cowardice,
The cries of lost companions
Echoing in their ears,
Fallen heroes
Eager for release,
Hungry for the redemption
Fighting at your back can bring.

And while you sleep
I bargain for your life,
Entreating demons and Gods
Alike to choose another,
Fearing the musical voices
Whispering from the shadows
Asking what I'd trade
Asking what you're worth,
Fearing Gods that never answer,
Fearing what I'm willing
To offer even more.

I don't lie easy in our bed,
Tucked against your heart like
A pearl in an oyster shell,
As if I could save you,
As if I could change your destiny
With bad bargains,
With the longing to breathe you
In with each kiss,
Or the need to feel fingers
Trailing foxfire across my skin.

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