I
I wore the scent of the tree—
bark freshly peeled back,
slick between my fingertips.
Strips to tie, to weave my fort—
securing branch to twig.

II
Cedar, the leaflet canopy—
a shelter,
overhead, my fort.
Keeping out the world,
nesting me in sanctuary.

III
Legs bare,
shirt twisted above my navel.
Sweet earth scented with the tree’s pheromones.
Hair sticking to my neck and forehead.
Summer heat wears me—
beautiful.

IV
Within my makeshift,
I explore my body away from
prying eyes and laughter.
Sticky skin, the warmth—
innocent curiosity.

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