The Mistress of Word Play

I watched you build the patio
there where the shade fell across the ground.
The soil was denuded and dug out deep
and your skin turned the color of tree bark
when the rain has stained it dark.

Sand was strewn across the stark earth
and one by one you placed each block.
I brought you a glass filled with ice and water
watched your sweat bead on that forehead
and I saw your hands and fingers turn red.

I kissed those gentle yet strong hands
with these lips that loved the man.
Beauty emerged each time you worked.
A masterpiece in concrete I began to see.
It was a labor born of love you performed for me.