is the question you ask, your pale brown eyes piercing mine. I'm a window without shades. I tell you I have no wants as I tuck my desire into my breast pocket. I want to forget that each time we meet we keep our clothes on despite my intentions. I want to tell you I smell the bourbon on you as I fight the urge to taste your lower lip. I want you to know those first moments I see you threaten to explode with whatever will happen after. I’m waiting, wanting to combust. I want to crawl out of the depths like a recently released prisoner of the mind, pouring myself forward like bourbon, smooth. I want to stop wishing you’d make the first move. When you ask what do you want from me? I want to twirl that dress tie around your neck, wrapping it tight-bound to my wrist, pull you in close, locked-eyed, and whisper, It’s your soul I want. And I want it dripping down my throat while you quiver in my mouth
Laura McDermott Matheric's first book of poetry, Visions on Alligator Alley was published by Lominy Books in 2015. A Professor of English, Laura regularly teaches writing workshops and literature courses at Broward College and throughout the community. Recent publications include The Closed Eye Open, The Sad Girl Diaries, Purple Ink Press, and Chameleon Chimera. Her second book of poetry, Möbius Love Song, was named a 2023 semifinalist in the Button Poetry Chapbook contest. Laura is the first Poet Laureate of Coconut Creek, Florida.