Sunday Afternoon

Sunday afternoon, stolen moments--
sun slanting across single pillow
two heads resting peacefully,
two bodies warming blankets
bristling with anticipation.

Lovers pause, ready to slake thirst.
Single stroke of flesh produces heat.
Touch of hand ignites union's memory.
Lips bruise, limbs entwine, all is motion,
friction, desire masquerading as love,
even as Rilke's infinite distance
stretches endlessly.

Movement toward that wonderful
side-by-side living.
Wary dance around other
whole against wide sky.

Sun lightens afternoon ceiling.
Outside, only cold and ice--
Inside, the promise of desire's fire...