For A.
Firmness re-surfaced – as if a pulled cork re-floated
to lift itself – as she drank wine
Honest blood runs in her veins – not diluted – not fluid algorithms
Her dilating pupils cannot lie
Stoic words – she kisses them – not economical with thought –
not selfish – not over-protective
Three words for love – in French and in English –
form on my lips as my mouth dries