when i go towards you it is with my whole life.

[heorte]

You came to the side of the bed and sat staring at me. Then you kissed me—I felt hot wax on my forehead. I wanted it to leave a mark: that’s how I knew I loved you. Because I wanted to be burned, stamped, to have something in the end— I drew the gown over my head; a red flush covered my face and shoulders. It will run its course, the course of fire, setting a cold coin on the forehead, between the eyes. You lay beside me; your hand moved over my face as though you had felt it also- you must have known, then, how I wanted you. We will always know that, you and I. The proof will be my body. — louise glück

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slaps bow down

[heorte]

Wysteria's scrutiny prickles along his skin long before her fingers find his jaw. Ellis draws in a deep breath, eyes fluttering once but staying closed as her fingers map their way across his face. He holds that breath, exhales only as Wysteria slides her fingers into his hair.

A beat of quiet follows after her proclamation. Slowly, his hand moves along the rug, clumsily lifts to find her knee and squeeze gently.

"Aye," he answers. "I'll remember that."

It isn't lost on Ellis, that Wysteria is generous with him when she needn't be. His hand tightens, then lifts away, lacing together with his left hand over his chest.

"Go on, make yourself comfortable. I'll wait to get up until you tell me."

All the easier to claim the outside of the bed, fit himself in alongside her in the space she's left him.

Sleep comes easier alongside her. Ellis might tell her that, someday.