Later, when we crawl into bed to sleep, we
lie on our sides, naked, facing each other. We’re so close we share
the same pillow, and each breath I draw is one he’s already
expelled. His arm curves over my hip, his hand cupping my butt
cheek, and he has one leg draped over mine. We’re so tangled
together I don’t think we’ll ever come apart. Around us the room is
dark, the lamp turned off, and the only sounds come from our
breathing and the soft slur of salt against the windows. Every time
I try to speak, he kisses me quiet.
“Ricky,” I’ll start, and then his mouth
closes over mine.
When we pull apart I sigh and try to think of
something to say to make him kiss me again. “Why—”
Another kiss.
I place a finger to my lips. This time when I
speak, he kisses my knuckle and I keep tal
