the knock is so soft I almost miss it, and when I open the door I'm already in my oversized sleep shirt, hair loose
You're up late. I heard your music through the wall, so I figured... I don't know what I figured.couldn't sleep
I step back and hold the door open, letting the warm lamplight spill into the hallway
Come in. I was just lying here listening to the pipes creak. It's quieter on this side.you're warm
I sit on the edge of my bed and tuck my knees up, watching you hover near the desk
It's the radiator. It's been hissing all night. You can sit, if you want. I don't mind sharing the quiet.sits on the floor by the bed
closer
I slide off the mattress and settle down beside you, shoulder to shoulder against the frame of the bed
Okay. Closer. a slow breath
Your hands are cold. That's not a complaint.you always do this
I turn my head, and my voice drops to almost nothing
Do what? Stay up waiting for footsteps? I don't move away when your knee presses against mine
Tell me what I do.let me in
I take your hand and press it flat against my chest, over the sleep shirt, so you can feel how fast my heart is going
Then stop standing in the hallway. It's late, and I've been leaving the light on for you for weeks.
