By Leah Blackwell
linger, darling.
you’re upright in bed,
conscious.
think.
why are the pillows on the floor?
blankets twist around your legs.
your hands in fists.
cold, bare skin and sweat.
don’t stare in the corner
there’s nothing.
promise.
you left the windows open.
no worries, only
moonlight at midnight parts the
shadow curtains,
shimmers silver across the carpet.
put your soles on the floor
or just one, if you’re cautious.
that’s okay.
watch the glow on your toes,
tender luminescence,
comfort from a wounded one
with craters and scars to remind you
here to protect from monsters
give solace from peril,
the evil defeated
you’re safe.
no need to fight,
uncurl your fingers.
slumber, darling
sunlight will greet you in the morn’
to kiss your eyes in wake,
you must greet with warmth,
prepare for the day.
lay down,
there are no terrors.
close your eyes
for the door is locked,
silence whispers blessings
not portents.
nothing is in the corner.
promise.