he opens his eyes and
she is before him
still wearing that
forever dress
shining like
a flickering light
that had gone out
but is now
making a cameo
appearance.
eyes closed then opened
and there is only the moon
the one he promised
would breathe in
a million bright stars
only yesterday
or was it a fortnight ago
when kisses were still free
and she though he was
a genius.
7/20/22