so this is love

We laid on the picnic table outside my house, looking at the sky, watching the meteor shower; you had your arm around my shoulders and let me use your chest as a pillow. You tightened your grip, just a little, before loosening again and sighing quietly.

The stars were bright, and the night was quiet.

 I was leaving to head back to university in two weeks, and your classes at the local community college started at the same time. You do so much, as the son of immigrants; you work, you translate for them, you take care of your younger brothers, and you still do your best to follow your dreams and hope to transfer to Columbia. These responsibilities weigh you down, I know, but you keep going. I admire you for that.

Last year was hard. I live ten hours away during the school year. We had our fights and petty jealousies, but we got through it. I know we will again, and the second time will be easier than the first.

I also know I will miss you terribly.

You kiss the top of my head, pulling me out of my thoughts, and tell me to stop worrying. I've offered to transfer somewhere closer before, but you always tell me to stay at my university, my dream school. I love you all the more for it. I reach up and twine my fingers with those on the hand around my shoulders.

Make a wish.