A Slippery Sound

I tried to say it, just like you would.

That particular word, understood

only by us. But the sound caught,

a feather in my throat, a thought

that wouldn't quite form.

It used to be so clear, a storm

of warmth and comfort. The way you'd crack

on the 'r' in 'darling,' or the quick 'ack'

of your laugh, after a dry joke.

Now it's a ghost, a sound that broke

just outside my hearing.

I strain, leaning into nothing, fearing

that soon, the shape of it will fade,

the melody you always played

in your speaking. Just a hum, a space.

And I can't quite grasp your face

in my head, when I can't hear your words.