Let me love you

by planting mint behind the rosemary,

where it will be protected

and continue hardy green production

well into December and January.

And I will put lights in the garden

so I can find it when you want tea

anytime, even after the sun goes down.

I will romance you in the dark.

And I will go down to the river

and carry home watermelon boulders

with my own hands and legs and back

to protect this minty tenderness

from being trampled by your dog

as he thunders after bees and butterflies

and daredevil birds.

Romancing your tongue and nose.

Warming your belly and hands.

Creating rituals of devotion

to your pleasure, your comfort,

and your sustenance.

— Mercy