Soft Awakening

Careful and quiet,
you lift your legs
from the creaky bed
we share, trying
with all your tiny might
not to wake me.
You don't know that my eyes
are already open, and the sound
of your silent struggles
sends a smile to stretch
across my shrouded face.

Your soft soles sink
into deep carpet, and a
quick intake of breath
stifles the yawn you wish to release
so badly.
I admire your consideration,
your compassion;
you know how little I sleep.
In return, I will do anything
to stop you from knowing
that your gentle awakening
woke me as well.

For soft as you step,
and silent as you sleep,
my love for you keeps me awake
long into the night,
lighting on silver wings
that sing from your heartbeat,
beating only for my
waiting ears.