I hold your swollen, wrinkled hand
That's warm from being underneath
The blanket. I squeeze it, hoping for
A pivotal moment like those in the movies
When the simplest touch takes the death
Out of a person and brings them to life.
No, it didn't happen. Your hand lay
Lifeless in mine and your fingers naturally
Curled over the back of my hand.
I leaned into your ear while a pair
Of tears leaked from my eyes. I whispered
"I love you" and kissed your blemished cheek.
I felt you letting go, releasing all that remained
Inside your broken and bruised body before
Silently slipping away.