THANK YOU

In the dark,

we held hands

and kissed each other into safety,

letting our nervous laughs

(the kind that precede newness)

drown out the need for performance,

the bated breath for the naked reveal.

Showing a piece at a time,

holding it up in our hands, claiming it in the name of pleasure.

Covering it with our mouths,

biting at a chance

to be gentle,

to say

“See this here?

This portion may greet the sun.

Not only do I want you here,

I will devour all of you,

whole.”

— Amon Elise

---