slow burn

my hand rests beneath my nose 

i can smell cigarette smoke 

lodged beneath my press on nails

and i think of you 

i let my fingers drift down my cupids bow 

and I crave you more 

i waited for you to kiss me, but you handed me a cigarette instead.

a tender gesture 

more romantic than touch-

I never knew nicotine 

to be as enchanting as lust

forget the cigarette

the lighter and the buzz

and share your exhale with mine.

addiction on my lips

let our breaths intertwine

feel our ribs bump 

while I inhale you inside 

let me comfort your coughs

and warm your lungs 

with laughter and love 

as i flicked out my second cigarette 

clarity found me 

approaching the bud  

that I cannot continue 

an addiction 

under the fantasy of love 

what didn’t last in the past 

was as quick to light 

as it was to throw away, 

i thank you under my breath

i think i prefer this slow burn anyway.