The Piano

This—California jasmine;
   the spice of hypnotic air.

This—missed connection,
   a room with no one there.

This—all my affection,
   you have it, have it bound in chains.

This—another for my collection,
   of desire, and desert rains.

This—lingering season, 
   the echo of a touch I know…

This—wide-thigh reason—
   notes on the piano.

*Originally published in Crying Heart Press, Issue 1, 2026.