black dots
closely scattered
rows and rows and
doubling back and crossing
over, till cream
is no longer background
blurred shadows remain as
pleated and see-through
flutters in dark waves around
sun-colored thighs

leather snug around
steady ankles,
closed around red-polished toes
laced all the way closed
a disclaimer:
love not guaranteed

a wilting peach-colored rose in one hand
faded blue purse in another,
uncertainly empty except for
lipstick and self-conscious sunglasses
set down on a bench
as boots quicken on the floor
stepping over months of
no new messages
around garbage spilled across
the sleek marble floor

her slim arms reach before it's possible
up toward his short hair
tired hands clench, out of habit,
around a duffel bag
his boots are heavier, dust-colored
instead of glossy black
skin more tan than she remembers,
mostly covered by drab green,
nondescript yet
drawing stares from other tired travelers

breath catches already, not noticing
liquid black caressing her cheeks,
pulled up into a smile, mirroring
her whole body, rising on toes,
muscles stretching up to reach him
as he catches her, stumbles back
and catches himself,
polka dots against camo
love:
not guaranteed