The Space Between Us

we found each other in books
pages bent, spines softened
sentences underlined
from opposite sides of the world—
the same story
held in two different hands

you talked about stars
like they were familiar
like distance was only a measure
not a threat
i learned how far light can travel
and still be seen—
how something can cross miles
and arrive intact
somehow
i could still feel you

there was a fullness to us
unrushed
like mangos eaten slowly
letting the richness linger
knowing some things are best
when you don’t hurry them

honeyed words
sweet enough to taste
never poured all at once—
just enough to stay
on the tongue

we circled each other carefully
bees near something bright
not trapped
not careless
just aware of the pull

and as we grow roots beneath the surface 
we discover how much love
can live in the space between us—
how distance handled with care 
can still hold warmth