The mattress dips as they meet in the middle. They trade soft nods that say keep going. The headboard taps a soft beat and forgets to count. The rhythm tightens once, then opens into calm. They lie shoulder to shoulder, counting heartbeats.
Warm air gathers over the sheets while they inch closer. They settle into a tempo that fits like memory. Sheets crease, then smooth with the next breath. They let the pace ease, breathing in the same measure. They lie shoulder to shoulder, counting heartbeats.
