the fourth cloud

i so wished to kiss you then,
yet i would kiss you in the way
i would the forbidden of the center of eden:
my lips would brush your cheek
and i would leave no trace
that you might not ever feel it.

and i would leave without a taste
of you in my mouth; unlike eve and adam.
and i would leave without a piece
of you in my soul, my dream-coated lips
would be unsmudged.

as you will remain at the center of this -
seemingly untouched and out of reach.
unsoiled and shiny and smiling at me,
your damp lips unkissed and
red as sin.

2004.nov.5