In conscious hours

as the clock ticks slowly

I search for exposed flesh,

digging my toes against your feet,

ankles, calves…

trailing my hand under blankets

to find your wrist,

fingers,

elbow

to feel the heat of you.

I move to your breathing,

careful not to wake you

but enough

that you will let me into

your dreams

visiting some exotic island

where the temperature

is not freezing

and I can finally

feel human again.