This is simply an expression of deep love for my wife, an appreciation of our life together, and an awareness that it is drawing to a close.

The featured image was generated by Scooter Smith using Adobe Firefly.

I feel close when you read
at the far end of our sofa
beyond a snoring black cat
and a generous white dog
the pair like ink on paper
folded into a cover nicked and worn

I surrender to their musky aromas
merging with your elderflower tea
floral, dusty, tart, and earthy
recalling fading stories
typed into our history
by the painful joy of living

I ask what are you reading,
but you turn to the next page
of a book too near the end
unaware that I envy you
so lavish with your time
while I dare not look away