Hiatus

In the relentless heat
of a Chicago summer.
Two men,
standing,
face to face.
The shock
of realisation tingling,
electric,
between them.
Each waiting,
hoping the other
will speak
the words.
Fearing,
wanting,
knowing
the inescapable truth.

The Undiscovered Country

The tide of passion
has brought them here
and now,
stranded,
they hesitate.
Each of them more naked than he has ever been.
There are no maps
or compasses to guide them
through these uncharted realms.
No promises of a safe journey.
But then a touch,
feather-light,
an act of faith.
And together
they explore
the undiscovered country.

Afterward

Afterward,
lying in the narrow bed,
limbs entangled,
the breeze like warm silk
on sweat slick skin,
the words,
set free at last,
a whispered caress.
Lying in his lovers arms,
he discovers joy.

Morning

In the grey morning light,
pacing,
softly,
not to disturb his lover's sleep.
In borrowed clothes,
pacing,
shivering in the warm breeze.
From the bed,
a deep stillness.
What will he feel,
now that passion is spent?
Regret,
shame,
disgust?
And then a stirring
in the narrow bed
sends him to perch,
birdlike,
seeking crumbs of hope.
Eyelids flutter,
open.
Transfixed by brilliant blue
and a joyous smile,
he tumbles into reaching arms.