He had salt water in his veins
I knew it from the moment our eyes met
His calloused hands proving worth
I needed to consume him
He reached for the flower in my braid
I led him down an alley

In my home he removed his hat
My clothes, my insecurities, my skin
He gave me shells from his life
I treasured them like coins

When he had to return to the Sea
He kissed my cheek
I bid him farewell
That was the beginning