Pearls and Heels

You lay back and smile
captured through camera lens
in black and white perfection.

Was the grinning face real,
or just an image projected,
ready to be erased from film
and from our memories.

In the microseconds
of the camera aperture eye's
blink I saw more sadness
than the glee I expected.

"A little left, that leg higher,
turn toward the camera."
"Click. Click. Click."
"There, hold that pose."

We shared dreams of everything,
mind pictures of beaches,
suns and warm rains far away
while we fought winter here.

We shared thoughts and visions
of everything but love,
but it was all a thin cover
through which lust peeked.

As you laid back and relaxed
after two glasses of red wine,
we pretended pictures
would be art and keepsakes.

The camera captured deeds,
misdeeds, and faked smiles.
I saw your discomfort
as we race through snapshots.

Somewhere between clicking
and peering at nude perfection
modesty and reason set in.
We were close to crossing a line.

Gone was the fun and enjoyment
of simple friendship and photography,
and I turned away in shame
before temptation ruined me.

Pearls and heels lay on the floor.
Gone was my smile and the illusion
that this craving wouldn't lead
to my soul's rejection.

You lay back and smile
captured through camera lens
in black and white perfection.