5/9/2003

The kiss
their first
comes late
in the movie
the embrace
awkward
and tentative
each
finding a way
carefully
to the other
she
a star already
he
a newcomer
just learning
that shyness
is a way of being
in the public eye.
She knows
from experience
success
is no protection
from predators
using affection
to get what they want.
They
pull one another close
attending to desire
having decided
after
putting their trust
in caution
this is what they want.
Their eyes close
as
their lips meet
seeking the person
inside the skin
they are drawn to.
Soundlessly
their bodies ease free
of defenses
entering slowly
into the kiss
the pleasure of it
relief from
fear and grief
success and failure
what preceded
coming together
in this moment
whose future they accept
being unsure of.