[never underestimate the ability of a tub
to hold two people in love]
you asked me to remove my makeup
so you could kiss my freckles
you cleaned your fingernails with my scalp
washing and conditioning my curls
we laughed as you learned the power of shrinkage
my wet body puddled the floor
as i wrapped you in a towel
before drying myself
we laughed more
i listened to the water
falling down the drain
as you lotioned my skin
softening my scars
i fell into bed like a restless child
my eyes resisted the urge to sleep
until your touch found its way to me
i wondered what our ancestors would say…
you— white woman, loving me this way
me— a black woman, allowing it
- breaking generational curses