Pre-dawn

What's more important? Work or enjoying a moment with your partner?

The warm aroma of freshly brewed coffee gently roused Courtney. A faint light under the door and her clock were the only lights in the cool room.

Courtney put her slippers and bathrobe on and shuffled into the kitchen. Kelley smiled softly, “Oh I’m sorry Court, did I wake you?”

“No,” she replied, looking around. “It’s early.”

“Yeah, I couldn’t sleep.” She handed Courtney a warm mug. “Come sit.”

Kelley grabbed her own coffee and guided Courtney to the enclosed patio. She sat on the swinging chair and steadied it, motioning to the seat beside her. Courtney sat and Kelley began gently rocking them.

Crickets and cicadas chirped, the frogs croaked. It was a beautiful pre-dawn, a slight chill in the air. They sat and rocked as the sun rose; the grass dewy, the sky a deep hue of blue.

Courtney set their empty coffees on the table. She pulled Kelley closer, reached behind the chair and draped a blanket over them.

“I could live in this moment forever,” Kelley cooed.

Courtney kissed her partner’s forehead. “Me too, Kel.”

Mourning Doves sang a private symphony just overhead.

Kelley continued, “but I can’t. You’re going to be late for work.”

Courtney shushed Kelley softly, watching the sun kiss the horizon, chasing away the darkness. A palette of pinks and oranges erupted from the fringe. Kelley settled into Courtney’s chest, nuzzled under her chin.