I leave traces of me

along the lip of the mug where

I drank the coffee you brewed

my scent lingers on our clothes,

in the closet behind the mirrors.

The medicine bottle I took this morning

is still open on the counter.

The imprints of my kisses remain all over you,

as you clutch the sheets we shared so tightly.

So promise me one thing:

No tears shall descend from your eyes

Even as I leave your side.