Granite grey
scratches and pulls
a baleful wail
angst and terror
the irresistible pull
gravity takes her
teetering on a knife-edge
fingers desperately clawing
against cold rock
not yet warmed
by the fiery kiln of sunrise
he draws a deep single breath
time slows
he ties her lifeline
a slip-knot around his waist
and becomes her anchor
pulling her to him
her breathing
sharp and brutal
but slowly
and gently
the peace returns to her
A shared smile
and precious life saved.