time warp, indeed

"Anton Bluenote II"

He steps from the shadows,
Cloaked in mystery.
His words are kind yet cold.
His gaze penetrating.

With his presence comes a feeling of unease.
His soul is tormented.
Behind the mask he hides.
Shelter for tender emotions long ago tortured.

He turns away,
Reluctant to free his true self.
Yet he returns his gaze to her,
A look of longing in his eyes.

"Please sir!" she cries.
"Your heart is safe within my hands."
He looks anxious.
A struggle to stay or flee.

At last his heart conquers his fear.
He approaches,
Slowly, cautiously, into her embrace.
His body shudders as her arms reach 'round him.

She soothes his furrowed brow as she gently mutters wordlessly.
Small noises to ease his fearful agitation.
His shaking ceases as he looks down into her eyes.
And he smiles.

-- H.S.L. 07/20/95 (ed. 07/28/95)