Kaguya

Did you believe me when I pointed out the crayfish 

hiding between the rocks,

as if it knew and hid intentionally.

The sunrise reminding us to sleep, the rice in the fields 

growing, telling us we’ll have another season together 

until they get plucked by hand.

Roam unfamiliar cities                                                                          until 

we find your childhood 

neighborhood that’ll take you 

farther, so climb a foreign 

mountain instead that reminds 

us of home.

Have you felt the ocean breeze caress 

your shoulders, Yes, I got jealous so 

I cradled you back.

Believe me when I stargaze in your eyes,

as our lips carry our weight, as our hands 

curl. Our minute. This burden. Can I shed 

them all now, so our roads finally meet.

These promises we made.

Believe me when I can’t say I do too.