laurence

I could be Laurence, for a spell.

It would be pleasant. To be her.

She lives in me, always, and she dozes often.

But when she awakens, I feel a furious ache

Everywhere. It is relentless.

The very fact that she is alive is a curse

But one that I choose to keep.

I do not mind her presence. Actually

I adore her. I feed her and keep her company.

Like a friend. I know her, and she me.

Tomorrow I will wake and she will be there.

I do not mind. I smile. I laugh. And I weep for the both of us.