She takes off his glove to reveal
No hand at all –
Birds outstretch
In the shape of a palm,
extending feathers from his wrist.

They are startled by the rush
Of air, as it shocks them into motion.
They flap their wings and the hand
Comes alive.

The beaks work together as fingers,
Able to grasp whatever
She throws his way.  They are flighty
And subject to wandering,
They are curious.

For what do birds do but fly
About to discover the world?
They detach themselves from his cuff links
And wave their wings in a motion of goodbyes.