by Angela Pully

We lay there for hours 
by the fireplace,
whispering, holding,
promising, speculating
and making sweet love.

First the flames then you
gently lick my skin,
alternating soft warmth
and sweet chills,
lulling then exciting.

What sweet joy it is
to realize as we 
loll about together:
this is one of
the best days we'll know.

Ignoring the clock,
we lay for hours,
postponing the time
when we have
to dress and part ways.

Finally, it's time.
We rise slowly
and bathe each other
with our eyes
and with warm water.

Dry my skin and eyes
then kiss my cheek
before you leave me.
I'll be here
when you return home.