First sound before first sight
is the spit and howl of windy sleet.
first sight the pearly water
dribbles down the hopeless window
and Cold sneaks in to hug your bones.
up into the shivering morning
two bodies leap
one earthy flesh one gossamer wisp
the faintest touch of silk
up a backbone a thousand small soldiers
stand to attention
of the coldest kiss
next and suddenly
brisk warmth over rubbed skin
static woollen heat
the whisper of a touch
up a backbone a thousand small soldiers
slump from duty
and Cold slips and idles away