She set out scented candles, jasmine
one for each step of a darkened stairway
then soft music; solo piano
she changed into clothing of summer breezes-
a robe of black silk and a gown of muted burgundy.
her footsteps lingered slow and soft
dancing; tracing patterns on the floor with toes painted bright as blood
pausing only to catch breath, deep eyes sparkling
in the distance, a factory whistle. the end of a shift.
she waited for two pair of eyes to adjust to the light
and untied her robe's sash
candles lick
shadow and light against pale skin
hungry fire, waiting.
as she too waits.
.
This is a collaborative work- bexxta- (in italics) the rest- e.