lover, still

that sudden electricity

which you so innocently offered

without pretense or guilt

(a day we both remember)

   then, carefully

took away

reverberates within that part

of us that we cannot control

and

returns with dreams veiled over

and keeps a steady hold

if by some chance you choose to chase

another's amorous embrace

remember there're no secrets now

i see it in your face

you know i'll never force a smile

or make it something new

but if my love is not enough

it's still my gift to you.

douglas brent smith