how do i tell you i love you with my clothes on?

naomi foster | Spring 2024

what can i offer to man who doesn’t want sex?
who doesn’t thrive off of seeing me writhe and squirm?
who doesn’t get off to the thought of my unconscious, undressed, non-consenting body?

how do tell you i love you with my clothes on?
how can i make you see that i’ll do whatever it takes,
even if it’s not my idea?

even when if i have to pluck and preen every follicle.
even if i have to pause my menses.
even if i have to purchase my own contraceptives for convenience's sake.

where does his desire lie if not between my legs?
what can i give to a man that isn’t attached to me?

how will he know just how much i care if the lights are still on?
if my legs are closed?
if this is all i’ve ever known.