Your hand in mine (inspired by 'The meat') - Asher-Lee Tulip Downer (Year 2)

I took a star from the sky, sewed your name into the seam. Placed it above your head, while you continued to dream. I whispered into your ears, warned off all the bad nightmares. Kissed your bitter cheeks in the morning and pushed back your thin baby hairs. I cradled your cold body and warmed up your blue lips. And brushed all the dust off your pretty dress while I tightened the bow around your hips. 

I made the bed around you, wrapping the duvet up nice and tight. Keeping you trapped and safe from the cold, suspicious night. You stared at me, with your blue, crazy eyes and I can’t help smiling as I bat away the greedy flies. 

They sit upon you, like small vultures watching their prey, but I will not let them get to you my dear, no, not today. 

You are still the most precious thing I own, I take your hand and admire the ring. Thin and silver, on your pale skin it has begun to cling. 

The candle’s flame flickers in the descending light as I held your hand in mine. I look at your pale expression and how the light made your lifeless eyes shine. Your cheekbones were beginning to show even more today, your skin sinking into your face. The dark mistress of time taking away what was left of your beauty and grace. 

Stealing your warm, perfume smell and replacing it with odours of old, as I clasp your papery skin to mine and try to ignore the cold. 

I couldn’t keep you forever. I had known this for a while. But just a little bit longer, just a little while more, so I don't forget your smile. The way your lips used to curve up when you looked at me. The confused way your face crumpled up when I got down on one knee. 

Now your figures indent will forever be on our bed, as your body continues to decay. Resting in-between the duvet and the sheet. I will continue to tell you I love you, every single day. 

Every day, I will press my lips to yours and pretend they kiss mine back.  I will hold your hand till it turns to dust and until your pupils succumb to the black. Until the final calls of death ring at our door and take whats left of your decomposing bones from me. I will keep you safe and locked away, with my fingers around the key. 

You may be dead to the world, but you are still alive to me. I will keep your decaying body for as long as the flies will leave it be.