EARLY STARK WAKING
by Jess DePue

So much for that
Today I find you parting clouds
Found my departure less loud a part
From our eyes' instinct to laser
Down morning's red sound alarming
Newly dismissed from my lips' surroundness
Rarely does a stir churn your limp side
Around pre-dawn I anticipate
Last hours to keep sleep's promise
To keep me held completely, our
Submission balances two worlds
Together externally welded
When our skin's warming graces
Take formal embrace of the other
Re-trace ourselves undercover molds
Before sun plants its plaid pattern
Across my vaporized mirror
Next door you grow nearer to dreams
Inhale mist and soothe our cool sheets
As my reflection exceeds its own likeness
Tooth to tooth to impart new clean
Wondering through aimless rounds
Foaming at the mouth
Gumming at beginnings