every orange
begins as a blossom
forms into fleshy orbs
of firm juicy delight
carefully peeled
slowly stripped
juicily devoured
in the heat of day

each slice
tenderly moving
from my fingers
to your lips

the tangy zest
saved set aside
left to be dried
mingled with spices
cinnamon
nutmeg
cloves
tickling
teasing
tempting
melding
with loose
dark leaves

You and I
speak softly
of today
tomorrow
and forever

the moment boils
into silver liquid
shimmering steam
whistling eagerly
for some attention
hot splashes
unleash memories
of exotic India
awaken spicy tang
orange blossoms
unfurl reborn
on our tongues
as we savor
this moment
and each other.