Hiatus	

 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.