i can remember the reek of death

that filled that place

and

I can remember the reek

that

found its way 

to

your room.

invading your 

pores,

your breath

and the linen 

that clothed you.

i can remember dipping a swab

into apple juice

and

wiping it over 

your tongue and lips 

and I can remember

the rock 

your tongue

had become.

the last tears 

that cascaded over 

your perfect cheekbones.

the last exchange 

we had 

before

the 

dead-collectors 

arrived.

i can remember the reek of death

that filled that place

and

I can remember the reek

that

found its way 

to

your room.