time's attention

the warmth from the engine pressed against our backs as we lay,
stars slipping their cover across our skin.
it was only you and me in the field of hay and dandelion mile markers
but we whispered like we would hurt mother nature's feelings
if we spoke too loud.

you stretched your second finger up to the sky and when you did
the scent from your t-shirt willingly followed.
see that star right there? you said. the one that flickers with wild abandon?
i want that one to be mine. i love how she dances all night and never sleeps.

i waited then asked, so which one am i?
and as the words escaped my lips i wanted so badly the hope i felt
to pull your answer along into as wide a forever as the night sky.
aw that's easy, love. that one wayyy over there.
you pointed to one faint star way off in the distance above our heads
that hung sweetly beside the moon's halo.

but that one's the dimmest star in the sky, i said softly.
i felt the warmth from your hand cradle my chest and you whispered,
see, that one there it gives its' light to all the other stars without even knowing.
the way i see it, the night wouldn't have one single guide without the light from your eyes.

the chirp of cricket messengers and grass blades blowing in the breeze
faded suddenly against the quiet ticking inside my chest,
as if bringing the moment to time's attention.
your hand never left its' spot, and it was then that i knew never would i.