stray fingers
blaze a trail
through the scars
grinning up at you
from her once-tender back
she sewed them shut herself
and they’ll each tell you their story
if you ask very politely
for you were the one
who swore eternity to her
and she’ll take you for your word
so, safe at last, she slides
slides onto your promise
onto your knees
comes to rest
eyes unflinching
locked level with yours
sharp breaths
coil silken arms round your neck
and baby says
“rock my gently”