I long to kiss her but I cannot. Not because others are watching, I am not ashamed. Because my lips will leave a stain, an outward taint on the purity that is her face. That is her.

I cannot endure the thought of sullying something so precious.

I yearn to wipe my mouth but that won't erase the darkness that lies within. It will only hide it and I won't hide from her.

There is no conscious intent to touch but it is one more memory for the lonely years ahead.

I store it gratefully.

Right now, it is enough.