I would

I take up my pen to write –
How else can I touch you?
I would meet your gaze
But they stalk it hungrily
Eager to tear it down
And leave it bleeding there.
I would gently brush
Your face
With my fingers,
Lingering.
I would rest my head
Against your shoulder,
My face turned
To breathe your warmth,
My lips tasting
The salty smoothness
of your skin.
But they watch.
They bind me.
Breathless,
Aching,
I would draw you close
Then shuddering
At a touch
We would sweetly
Meet
Our yearning.

(1988?)

© Cate Kimberley and Word and Affect, 2012

Advertisement