\ how to lead

let him fall head first
into running
until he is stretched tired between two points on a map,
exhausted chasing kite strings
through the fields of a lost holiday.
turn him gently onto his back,
unbutton his shirt and kiss his chest.
lay your head on that very spot and listen
for the quickened pace, until it steadies.
his eyes closed, guard over his sleep
with bared teeth and determination,
no one else, no matters welcome here
between your mutual space.
whisper promises he'll never hear.
say goodbye, but do not mean it.