one of my first acquaintances

our encounter was harmless

and impromtu

the bus seat next to him was vacant

and I needed a place to sit.

things spiraled upward.

I kept telling myself "no I don't I can't"

but I did and I could.

I then told myself "no he doesn't he wouldn't"

but he did and he would.

he doesn't wear cologne

but his fragrance is refreshing.

his stubble doesn't hurt my cheek

it tickles when his lips caress my own.

he encourages my quirks

he lets me rest when I am weary

he lets me be when I ask.

contact used to sicken

words used to sting.

but when he touches or whispers to me

my stomach doesn't hurt.