It is a shaded spot

It is a shaded spot

Partially hidden

By a tumble of ivy and clematis

A deeply dappled overhang

Evenly warmed,

Beneath the friendly tangle

Of creeping stems and variegated leaves.

A cosy respite from the chill

Of an English breeze.

A fitting shelter for an old bench

With its faded wooden slats

Twisted and weather worn,

Gnarled and scarred by the hearts

And promises of so many

Callow dreamers.

Leaning back,

Brushing the foliage,

Its gentle kiss tickles my cheek

I feel her touch,

She has left her fingerprints

On my soul.

The whirls and ridges

Embedded in my heart

Provide a pattern,

A unique template

Which holds my world

Within its tender charms.

Even now,

In restful reminiscence,

The breathlessness it brings,

Is more

A sense of anticipation,

Than a dream

Of absence.