hug of balm

heart, tender and 
still defensive, 
opening the door to you, 
not sure what the night 
would bring, 
you opened your arms
and i hesitantly 
stepped in. 
you engulfed me 
your warmth, 
your hurt, 
your sorrow
mixed with mine. 
you felt my little 
shoulders quiver
and your voice quiet and resigned, 
"it's ok. it's ok."
my defenses quieted. 

that communicated to me
if i never were to 
speak to you again, 
your last words, 
your heart's cry

i love you
i love you. 
i 
 love 
       you.