Warmth

Elessar Younglove (they/fae)​​

I used to always be warm
My mom wrapped her arms around me
She called me a furnace
Now my hands are stiff and purple

Prickled plums losing their appeal
A testament to my own chill
And I mourn something
I took for granted

When people wanted to hold me
Took comfort in me
And I wonder
Where did the warmest part of me go

But last night
When the sky 
Was painted in silver and blue
My girlfriend and I held hands

Between the static of the TV
And a red couch
Losing its stuffing
Losing its warmth

Your hands are freezing
She whispered
The smile fell from my face
Not wanting to hurt her

I prepared to pull them away
I’m sorry
I said
She rubbed her thumbs over my palms

And smiled tenderly 
Don’t be sorry
She said
I’m warming you up 

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