The first time I saw you
my heart leapt in recognition
and I closed my eyes
    against the visions invading
    into the edge of my sight
    like stormclouds.
  
The first time I touched you
my skin sang with fulfillment
and I choked
    on the prophecy rising
    in my throat
    like bile.
  
The first time I kissed you
my lips trembled with promise
and I stopped breathing
    to escape the blood-stench swimming
    inside my mouth
    like poison.
  
And the last time I see you––
    with my hand upon your skin
    with your lips pressed to mine
I will open my eyes wide
       breathe deep with gaping mouth
and watch the promised future crashing around us
      like the crumbling columns
      of a forgotten temple.