The bride

The glance in her eyes tingles
few fears and tiny tears
inside.

The hesitation in her steps charts
known past to unknown future
Beside.

Her painted face and braided hair shrouds
secret stories and fairytale fantasies 
never shared.

Her effervescent smile and jasmine fragrance colors
years of sweat and shame
concealed.

She whispers,
"I rather be your lover forever
than a bride today."

Her groom murmurs,
"Yes, be my consort for life
Than an escort tonight."