We share a peach over the kitchen sink,

one bite for you,

one for me.

Warm juice runs down my wrist

and onto your cheek.

You’re wrapped to me

belly to belly,

the closest we can get 

to how we were. 

I want to be closer.

A cat prowls for lizards 

in the neighbour’s roof gutter.

I watch it from the kitchen window,

low and silent,

the perfect predator.

I cover your eyes with my palm

and offer you another bite.

I want you to know sweetness.

See, this is how the world tastes.

I’ve removed the stone,

don’t be afraid.

The cat pounces, then saunters away,

limp lizard between teeth,

the perfect prey.

I flinch

and you giggle; your face 

cracks open 

like a summer morning.

It’s all still a game 

I want you to play 

forever.

I want

I want

I want