Tenderness

She opens the shutters

New day has begun

Unloosens her plait

Early, wispy sun 

Dappled light kisses

Her cheekbones

Dances in her hair

Its chestnut tones

She wears a loose

Muslin chemise

It trembles, flows

In sudden breeze

She lays both hands

On her swollen belly

Our child within

Immersed in activity

Her lips smile

She sighs contentedly 

Notices I am awake

Moves to join me

Fingers touch my face

Trace a gentle caress

And, my heart explodes,

With love, tenderness

By Margaret Karim

From: United Kingdom