Waiting

Nighttime: sleep-silent, uneasy, poised Like a blade to the throat, Will you leave your bed, now, To kneel at my side? I hear the footfalls. I catch the glimmer of silver and starlight, Of crimson and garnet. Your hands, in the daylight, strike me in battle; Who would suspect they could soothe and caress? Delicate as breath, more delicate than shadow: Fingers brush lips, ruffle hair, trace the shoulder.

If I open my eyes, will you look at me? If I shift to the left, will you sit with me? If I give you my hand, will you extend yours? If I lean into you, will you do the same? If I kiss your lips, will you sigh with me?

If you look at me, I will not look away. If you sit with me, I will not refuse you. If you take my hand, I will not let go. If you lean into me, I will melt into you. If you sigh when we kiss, I will whisper your name.

You are my rival, And you are my love: One and the same, my fiery angel. Protect me. Shield me. Put your arms around me; Please let me protect you, Let me shelter you From the nightmares that scar you, From the fears that scum your sleep. Even a guardian needs guarding at night.

I want your hands tangled in my hair, Your lips crushing mine, Calling me beautiful, calling my name. I need your breath on my collarbone, Warm against bared skin, Heartbeats in rhythm, ablaze with desire. Take these whispers and moans And make them your song, A serenade, a plea, an invocation.

Let me trace your back, Memorize your skin, Sacred, precious, a sweet mystery. Let me see you smile, Unguarded, alive, Between kisses and murmurs. Let me give you this body: Make love, take me now, Lip to hip, soul and heart, Tonight, and forever.