Wouldn't have noticed you there if it wasn't for the guardians

strewn at your feet covered in filth of industry and 

1o hour shift mentality

burned out gas station 

monument to your achievements

sarcophagus covered by child stroke graffiti 

I knew you once we wore white and talked about women

endless conversation through blanket lights out dice game

now drive-by visitation   3 a.m.

sulfur street  glow mood lighting

plastic wrap picture frame

Too tired to talk or care stare out black window cant see reflection 

      remember another state and time everything was simple

Lost and regained then discarded bonded to each others 

essence, black bottom utensils, ice water rush not the real thing

Everything a lie or just sensation               desperation

       Couldn't bring myself to ask                  answer would have broken me

Sin

Money 

Death tattooed over scar tissue      ink spread so deep became truth

Texas could have

 saved                    consumed            or                        surrendered  

One chewed up                              One  regurgitated            one left behind 

Wake up terrified  

rhythmic chant of bed springs audible

Focus on breathing

Heartbeat tries to escape from left ear

pillow won't let it leave

can't will eyes open 

if they stay shut you'll stay asleep 

this remains a 

dream

dreams aren't real

dreams die in daylight

dreams don't last 20 years