we stood arm in arm
on the corner of an evening
perpetually wet cincinnati pavement
both of us waiting
for our lives
and the cross walk sign
to change
admiring the shoes
each were standing in
you notice my feet are tiny
with your deep liquid voice
a gentleman from the old world
you are beautiful in your hat
i loved the way my arm
felt inside yours as
we waxed romantic about the old neighborhood
and what used to be
pursed sweetheart lips asked
if i may kiss your cheek
you leaned in
the tip of my nose
and lips caressing
the smoothness of your face
you moaned into a sigh
every electric light
christmas bulb
and neon marquis
on ludlow street glowed
more intensely
as did we
the bell rang