I am invincible in warmth,
When the heat presses and
Embraces, as a lover.
It is easy to remember
What never happened: The arm around my waist, tenderness
And the scent of electricity have returned,
Tickling my mind.

When the hot air crackles with lust
And joy, I can feel the strength come
Easily. My heart is like a piston,
My blood pounding and the sweat pouring
As I tilt toward the heat.

Summer brings me triumph, but
You hurt.
I labor and run, always grinning, and
One phrase from you
Makes confidence impossible.
The sun's kisses burn but they last,
And your love-marks on my skin faded when
The jealousy in you shone.

It is easy to remember what
Never happened, but so painful to remember
What did.
If you had been the sun and not a
Summer lover, I would accept
Your apologies.