For S., 8 Poems (5-6)

5    UNDERSTANDING

                                 New Year's Eve, Taos

You slipped into the study,

I followed, locking the door.

Your sarong shucked up,

Hazel eyes, serene, oval face,

Golden hair all in a swirl.

Now--eased--on your side,

Still coming in ripples, you

In the cove of my arms.

I whisper, just the beginning.

"Baby, too fast," you say.

I grab a fistful of damp hair.

Your nails rake my cheek.

6     YOUR MASSAGE

Easing you back, I remove

Your flats, black hose.

Now, pressing thumbs hard,

Work heeel to toes between

The fine bones of each foot.

I kiss, our eyes meeting,

The inside of your right calf,

Your left knee, yet rising.