Quarantine
Masks and evasive glances
Huddled groups
And
Spaced out picnics
Long lines for household needs
Hurricanes
Then rainbows
Promises of hugs
Smiles through technology
And waves across the hall

~

Lazy days and lunch in bed
Blankets on the couch and
Romantic comedies
Popcorn and dark chocolate
Date nights in, and
Homemade steak
Drive-through milkshakes
Walks down empty city streets
Holding hands with
My love

~

"Hello."

"Oh. Hi. You look familiar...have we met before?"

"I don't think so. I've seen you around at this conference before. At least I'm pretty sure I have."

She tilted her head to one side.

"Ohhh that must be it. I've been here every year since they started this conference back in 2012."

"Cool! So have I. My name is Mark. Mark Barton."

He shook her hand.

"Melissa Grey. Nice to meet you!"

Smiles.

"Do you live near here? I live about three hours from here in a little community called Lake Victor."

Sweet little life inside of mine
I pray to God your light will shine
I pray your days be fill'd with grace
And that you'll look upon His face
I pray His love you'll magnify
As you lift up His name on high
And sing a song of endless praise
May He alone fill up your days

"Do you love me?"

"Why do you ask?"

He tickled her.

"Stop it. You're silly. Do you?"

"Of course. You know I do."

"I just like to make sure you still do."

"Why would I ever stop?"

She chewed on the inside of her lip before responding.

"What if...I become ugly or sick?"

"I didn't marry you for your good looks, dearest, and I didn't marry you for your health. I married you for your heart and soul."

"What if we can't have children?"