Time begins and ends with this.
I count the hours on my fingertips,
daylight savings, misbehavings
and staying up later than you promised,
because you’re talking to me.
I count the hours on my fingertips,
amazed at how long it’s been.
Stay. Stay, if only for a minute longer.
Five hours and miles apart but somewhere
in the sound of your voice you’re right here
with me. Right here and there is nothing
between you and me, not this screen,
not a sound. I can only hear you breathing.
Soft, a deep breath in. Softer still.
I count the hours on my fingertips,
it’s late and you’re sleeping. I know
you’d rather be saying goodnight, but
goodnight, my love. Sleep sound.
Days begin and end with this,
and I’ll call you in the morning.
Mehar Anaokar