The Visit

written by, and read by, © Peter Howard, first published in Outposts magazine, then in collection Low Probability of Racoons

She bids me lie back,
Says "This is your first time."
It is not a question.
She leans over me;
Her tight ringlets shake.
I am alone with her in this converted attic
And completely in her power.
"Come closer."
She touches my mouth in quite new ways,
Has a delicious breath,
And is entirely professional.
"That will be all - for this time.
Please pay on your way out. And by the way,
I suggest an anti-plaque toothpaste."