While With Him

Sweat and dirt down the drain
The scent of fresh hay and shavings linger

He collapses on the bed
Rough jeans and bare chest
Muscles lie still, in active
Stubbornly refuse mobility

I go to him
My fingertips water-fall down
Shoulder, bicep, forearm
Hand, a mixture of warm sun and chilled water

His eyes follow me softly
With silent permission
I lay down beside him
His palm is my pillow
Our only skin contact

The last gaze of the day
On me
His eyes close
Mine follow

We drift to darkness together
His forehead slowly kisses mine
His freehand subconsciously captures mine

Innocently protected
Freely connected
We fall into sleep