For the first time in months
I let my arms wrap around a body
The way Deuce, wide-eyed and wagging tail,
Places his body on top of mine and licks
Until my wet face can’t help but smile and say,
Alright, alright, I love you, too!

We hugged and we talked like the times weren’t
What they were and GOD it felt good to let my
Shoulders slouch and my mouth utter petty words
I wouldn’t have to fact check the moment I got home.

These heavy days have a way of choking out
The laughs and the love fighting their way
To the surface