Black opals shining in sunlight,
jewelry she wears like a name.
Is there a spell she could say, she
wonders, that would have his love last?
He gets close but grows elusive,
wild cherry tastes fading fast,
prisms of color, scents mingle
with roses. She feels her heart shine

on him like sun rays going out-
ward, always giving to him, risks
she always takes with him, for him.
Hot stones, rocks, under bare feet
tear at her, hold her back—retreat.
The sweet pea scent of the air floats
softly through her hair; she prays, hushed
prayers, his name often on her lips.