you and I lay together on your bed. The last of the credits from a movie roll off the television screen, and soon we are alone in a world of darkness. I am turned towards you, laying on my side so I can hear you better. You are on your back, staring at the glow-in-the-dark stars that dot your ceiling.

It is like most other nights in that your body temperature is far greater than that of the room. You’ve removed your shirt, leaving the tattoo visible on your shoulder. I begin to trace the outline of it with my finger. You close your eyes. The only sound is our breathing. Once I have the pattern memorized, I look to your face and say, “I want to draw on your skin.” You simply nod.

I move my finger to your chest. A mountain scenery unfolds. At first you ask questions about the picture, but soon give in to the motion and lay silent and still. It is a cabin up high, surrounded by endless snow. The perfect place for us to escape. And when I am finished, I have just one thing left to trace: “I love you. Please stay.”

by kellidear