Tough Man

The rigid softness of his chest

Cradling her head

One arm a secure embrace

The other lovingly stroking

The hair of this stranger

Her tears soaked his shirt

A gentle shhhhh, overlapping her sobs

His strength, her comfort

Fast forward

Two months

Her soft embrace

Chest cradling his head

Arms security blankets to him

Releasing his burden of unnecessary strength

Tears drenching her dress

Her hushed voice calming

It's okay, it's okay.

Barring his soul

Sharing himself

He is tough.

Man.