Counting Stars

As night overtakes the sky,
She stares into the darkness
And can't help but smile
As she counts the stars -

Memories of words said long ago
Linger in the frigid air,
Shimmering in a mind like the glow
Of a thousand fireflies ensnared.

Her hand reaches above her head
To capture just an ounce
Of the care that was said
To be measured by the stars that surround -

Fingers stretch to reach the beauty,
But drop back to her side;
She closes her eyes and breathes deeply,
Her desire for their closeness she must hide.

Her smile shan't falter
At her heart's sad squeeze,
For she knows their presence alters
Her life for the better - and even sets her free.

She admires the solace,
She adores the moon,
She cherishes her night,
And loves the starshine too.