Soft music drifts across the lake
dark waters shifting, lapping a sandy shore.
Fire glowing red, orange, and yellow shades
as it consumes the logs we piled together.
Laughter spiraling in the night air
drifting carelessly, abundantly to our ears.
You smile and your face comes to life.
How I want you and need you now.
Time was always our enemy
disappearing into tomorrow much as smoke.
The fire burns down to coals
and soon nothing remains but ash.
A cold breeze touches my heart
I wipe the sand from my feet.
Your strong arms are not here.
No one to keep me safe and warm.
I pull the shawl round about me.
Recalling the last time we dreamed together
the last time we laughed together
the last time we loved together
before you went away.