210: I Prefer My Monsters Under the Bed

Last night I had the dream-

the active shooter dream

the one where we’re all together

but I can’t find you.

You’re in the crowd.

People are running.

I can feel my heart in my mouth.

Last night I had the dream

and I shook you awake-

unconsciously grabbing for you,

reaching for you, reaching for

any sign that this is not what it looks like.

And there in the dark

you put your hand on my face,

you said I’m right here, I’m right here.

I said I’m right here, I’m right here.

But when we went back to sleep

I was jealous of childhood nightmares

for the very first time.

Written by Sarah A. Speed // Writing the Good