There are jellyfish to consider, spiny urchins & the dreaded Barracuda. She never hesitates.

There were nights & days where a bong filled with marijuana settled her nerves.

& days when his being thrilled at a sunrise so radiant & warm as they are in the tropics

overcame the certitude of death at work – their days were measured one toke at a time.

She’s cooked his favorite: a coq-a-vin with fresh morels it being spring & she alone.

He’s cautious not to go too fast while she appropriately defends against pleasure.

They are both keenly aware of the history that surrounds them in this marriage bed

inhabited now by their urgency & passion – who will be the first to break the bond – how are they to survive?