The Change

With arms stretched through
obviously shortened days,
I attempt to hold autumn's warmth.
Winter has shown me her form.
She pulled back her coat,
just before dawn yesterday,
exposing herself,
asking my embrace.
We were lovers once but
I've been estranged, still needing
a few more breaths of summer.
I tease her;
breathing deep the cold,
tossing aside my coat, demanding
my will, expecting my desire, allowing
her within a kiss of freeze.
I thought it a curled lip,
when I felt the change,
or a raised eye brow of reproach.
A cynicism or slight meanness
of something teased too long,
forgetting the game,
grasping control,
fighting for love.
Tonight we will kiss,
my desire though not my choice.
Her embrace will rise my skin,
cool fingers brushing the small hairs
on my neck.
I will love her,
for clearing my mind,
refreshing my life,
and the renewal of innocence.

Scott L. Strait