The Gift

pulling ribbons fall to flesh
soft and bare
the warmth of touch
summer's whisper
fragrant, sweet
a nervous glance
eyes wide with wonder
fingers entwine
lights flicker and fade
we float
angels wrapped in linen
something dark on the horizon
wild, panther-raw
shadows thicken
embers burst to flame
grasp of fingers
snarl and bury
roaring licks of arson
black release
silence but for breathing
shimmering light returns
as ribbons slip to settling
crumpled cover rests
the thrill subsides
the world returns
no words to share thanks giving
for the precious, wanton gift