The White Ship (5) Poem by David McLansky

(5) First Meeting

She was sitting, reading, very still
In a window alcove seat,
Her legs stretched out upon the sill
When first our eyes did meet.

I had noticed her on my path
Through the Science Reading Room,
A coal blue dress from neck to calve
With lilies splashed in fragrant bloom.

Her auburn hair had caught the light
As the sun set in the West,
Tinted gold and copper bright
Cascading down her vest.

I bumped a table and dropped my books
Dumbfounded by her grace,
And kneeling down I dared a look,
A smile upon her face.

On hand and knee I returned her smile,
Transfixed by her brown eyes
Laughing, blessing me the while
As I swallowed nervous sighs.