Treading Water

If love inspires words
to be bound by leather-
can the same material
encase you beside me?

Is it possible for one
to be free of the other?

Could I imprison myself
to grant your freedom
without martyrdom?

My mouth is dry of
your taste and thirsting
to swim beside you.

Panic grows with doubt
that I'll not tread water
long enough for your rescue.

I need you to softly
remind me how shallow
it is so I may stand,
bound by your side.