Love's Brave Heart

I wonder what would happen if I placed my hand above her mouth.

Would she scream? Would she cry?

I quickly clench my hand and press it against my side.

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I wonder what would happen if I wrapped my arms around her neck.

Would she gasp? Would she sigh?

I place my hands in my coat, not bothering to ask myself why.

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I wonder what would happen if I brushed my lips against hers.

Would she breathe? Would she comply?

I purse my lips and take a step back, not willing to try.

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But then, what would happen if I was brave?

Would I do those things? Would I say her name?

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But I don't have Love's brave heart.

So I don't do those things.

I don't say her name.

***###***

And here I stand watching the days go by.

They turn into weeks, months, and years.

Time does not heal Love's wounds.

***###***

For I still want her.

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I have my tongue in handcuffs, my heart in jail.

But they don't scream, cry, or yell.

They whisper words of encouragement, of passion, of Love herself.

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But I can't say her name.

So I don't do those things.

I simply move away.

***###***

Love's brave heart has passed me by.

It left me with no one, and her with someone else.

For Love knows who is willing to keep her brave heart.

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And that someone is not I.