Carefully, Then

by Lauren Kukla

We tread carefully,
then.

Wrapped in crisp sheets.
Barely touching.
Opposite cheeks on opposite pillows.
Dream-eyes fixed on different walls.

Thank God and praise something
there are
two sides to this bed.

I might make you coffee in the morning.

You might make me eggs.

Or perhaps I will
fumble for my keys
and
slip away into smoky dawn

before you know I’m gone.