I was with you in the summer at dusk
safely ensconced in your arms
while the crickets chirped louder and broke the silence
on and off, on and off, my head buried in your chest
your heartbeat loud then silent, loud, silent.
The darkening air, thick, humid, smelling sweet
of honeysuckle and wisteria blooms
This moment came and left so quickly.

The dregs of light seep through my hands
and crickets buzz in joyous anticipation
of the coming darkness. We sit in silence,
save for rhythms of the heart and insects.
I want to rise up tall and dance in the darkness,
for you walk with me into the night I no longer fear.
Your face is draped in shadow,
your breath falls on my neck like the humid air.
This is when I take your hand in mine, and we stand,
careful not to disturb the evening symphony.

My hopes rise with us.
We might dance, we might.