Holding My Breath

You are holding
my breath.
Each intake of life
and exhale of waste
passes through your fingers
like water
from a faucet.
Your hands fumble
to make a cup
for each drink.

You are watching
my eyes.
The afternoon sunlight
mutes their color
like a child’s blanket
hides the night’s monsters.
You must focus
to see the fear
I am fighting.

I am wrapped
in your arms.
I can feel your strength
protect me
like a morning fog
that blurs all the sharp edges
of the coming day.
You must believe me
when I say
I love you.