cal’s room
sea salt. soft coughs. folded linens and something like longing.
“you looked half-moon when you smiled. always did.”
lace curtains drift even when the window’s shut. the ocean sound is faint but constant.
someone’s sweater is still on the hook. the bed is still made. there’s warmth in the tea mug, still steaming.
cal’s presence is quiet. kind. soft enough to miss — but if you stay long enough, you’ll feel it.
a voice from the hallway says “don’t forget your scarf.”
Breathe With Me
Come sit. Let’s breathe for a bit. I’ll stay with you.
Níl tú ag teip ach toisc go bhfuil tú tuirseach. (You’re not failing just because you’re tired.)
For you, whenever you feel too heavy.
A ghrá mo chroí — (Love of my heart —)
Tá a fhios agam go mbíonn an saol crua uaireanta. (I know the world can be a lot.)
Ach ní laige é íogaireacht. (But sensitivity isn’t weakness.)
D’fhanfainn in éineacht leat sna ciúnais go léir. (I’d sit with you in every silence if I could.)
Ní gá duit a bheith ceart go leor chun mo ghrá a bheith tuillte agat. (You don’t have to be okay for me to stay.)
— Cal
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