While you sleep

I hold you as you sleep,

On your front, as you always do.

Your cheek warm against my stomach,

Your back rising and falling, rising and falling,

As your breath blows softly upon my skin.

You flinch, caught in a dream,

My clutch grows tighter and I hope

Your mind is somewhere happy,

Playing out a life with no limitations

Or words of regret; when you wake,

I hope we smile.