And that time had come to step up as a couple, or at least close friends, or fade away as was frequently done;

I was feeling confidently in control of everything I had allowed in. My guarded heart would have to be hard won.

He dared to tell me about his parents passing — the Vietnam soldier and the mother who couldn’t keep her grasp;

The Maternal grandmother who still, to this day at 91, held them all in her lap.

A dozen years later the strong men and women he and his siblings had become — caring, loyal and heart connected, overcoming their disjointed (Paternal) past;

A courageous series of small tasks that multiplied their fight to ensure true love lasts.

And after some serious exchanges and silly retorts, along with a few spontaneous snorts, he dared to tell me a secret longing he had kept inside.

I am certain he had calculated the risk: After all, I could remain hyper vigilant, or no more distant than the gift, heart open wide.

I at once felt acutely awake, comfortably present, and more than surprised. Well…

Had he tipped the scales of more shared intimacy together? Only time will tell.

~Just L (December 15, 2016)