once upon a time, there was quiet
and that distinct smell of bodies,
which have been perfumed but have sweated it off.
there were pillows to share,
a gasp of breath that was mutual
and gaps between the blinds
that let in little bits of world, one at a time.
you were simple, i was softer,
and the love we made was like sap
that dripped slowly down the face of a clock.
now we are older, we bear burns
from volcanic fights and arsons
born from fear and loneliness.
now we are older, will i be able to find you still
sitting by the side of a lake
with sunshine in your eyes and
sand between the folds of your hands?