a scarlet petal
ashy edges
crumbling away-
the pollen of a charcoal hibiscus
a viridescent thorn
shade of sunlight through pine
or delicious poison
disguised as wine
a bead of sweat
dripping down
carrying the ashes
(is this a sin?)
like oil in water-
black smoke on a pale evening,
blood dripping down a chin
and then the curtain shifts
no remorse
only victory
a cruel tilt of cruel lips
