i let the sun redden

my skin, blistering kisses

across cheekbones

.

i cup the coffee mug

a second too long,

enough to warm up my thighs

with my palms

.

i let the glare of strangers

burn holes into my tits

.

i bury under blankets,

melt my tongue with pastina,

flame my arms with bonfire licks…

.

it’s unnecessary, really.

a hug from a lover would suffice

(7/30/24)