Masquerade

anticipation feverish
as time stands still
preparations commence
while carnival carousers carol in streets below

swathed in shameless indulgence
metallic threads on silken cloth
glistening sequins adorn the train
my mirror smiling back at me

servants fuss
fashioning my auburn tresses
with silken ribbons
in up swept coiffed perfection

a gem stoned diadem
fit for a princess
is placed upon my head
as final preens and primps are made

my suitor waits tirelessly
a fairy tale carriage arrives
under moonlit skies
of deep organza blue

emerging from my gilded confine
a Juliet to my Romeo
we ride into the night
obscured paramours, secrets safe

arriving stylishly late
we reach the dance floor
guests strain to catch a glimpse
as I curtsy to my host

and in my hand
the mask…
Venetian finery in gold and silver
stick inlaid with mother of pearl

carefully camouflaged
so all will remark
who is that lovely creature
twirling across the floor?

smiling behind the facade
we embrace in a waltz
the night is young
let us dance until dawn