Sonnet 101 – Not Malice, But Mischief

You are maddening and not always in
the best of ways. You have a quick wit and
a wicked streak. Sometimes the impish grin
that comes with your delight will leave a man

left standing less than steady. It’s a bit
disorienting to feel the barb then
see that lovely face, to realize it
is not malice but mischief. Then again,

I’ve come to love that part of you. I’m far
less fleet than you, so my best defense is
to roll with it, to know the heart, the care
for me that lies behind the taunt. One kiss

is all it takes to heal me, Love. So tease
me, then please me with your kinder mercies.