Cages.

Chilly little shivers run
over my skin, bumping every hair,
raising them each to stand on end
despite the summer heat.
Carefully, delicately,
I suck in the thick air
to pump myself with false courage,
and march up to my adversary.
Your eyes match the sky,
match my gaze,
and I choke,
for I was not expecting this -
to meet you
standing in winter skin
amidst the summer sun.