The Stars are on Our Side

by Jennifer Hartmann

“You don’t have to be scared of the stars, Tabs,” he tells me softly.

“They’re flying with you. They’re right by your side,” he tells me. “Just don’t look down.”

“The stars won’t let you fall.” Gabe leans over to press a gentle kiss to my hairline. His lips linger as his thumbs dance across my skin, and then he says, “I won’t let you fall.”

GABE July, five months later I’m certain one can find dignity in most things, but there is no dignity in unrequited love. It’s fucking painful.

Oliver frowns, his confusion carrying over to us. “Chicken?” he wonders. “Yeah, the shoulder game.” “We will acquire poultry for shouldering?”