One look

I see but can't hear through the pounding

My heart in my ears

Nothing can happen, it won't happen

I can't think, I can't breathe

The pounding fails to bring oxygen

Gasping

A smile cracks my lips and a forced laugh echoes

As I struggle

A simple conversation grows as it is played

Over and over

Thinking, over-thinking

But your smile clears everything

Enough for me to breathe

And we talk

And you laugh

And I love.

I can't breathe 'cause my heart is pounding.