I didn’t think I’d cry
because we knew
this was coming
we’d pre-promised
after all.
but I underestimated
the power
of the thing in my chest
forgot how strong
it still is, even
in its battered, scarred
state, and when
you moved to kneel…
the tears came
the feeling welling in
my throat, rising
in my chest as I saw
the same in your eyes.
and before you spoke
we were both crying
for the joy of it
for having each other
for the beauty
and bond of
promising
for speaking the words
aloud and hearing them
accepted, for being
accepted
to know that you
are home
for good and for
always.
home.
– 7/5/21