To a woman

 She hummed softly as the water rolled to boil, carried her work with ease , filled her wash basin with a brisk heart , a flush in her skin...
 His absence weeks upon months away , no way to send a word...
    She knew in the shiver through her, as first the toe  , then slowly up the leg climbed the warmth,  sinking so slowly into water bliss
  The trouble to prepare the bath worth every boiled pot as she flowed further in...the knowing, in her heart, in her soul, in her very core...he would be home tonight...

    He'd ridden hard the last miles, his horse heavy and hot...
    Stopping soon would be a must, drink, nourishment, for the horse only
   He himself would not eat, his hunger was much too deep for simple food...
     Coming up on the last stream before he would be home , he pulled up to let the beast drink ...
      He didn't feel the cold as he plunged into the pool,  scrubbing the odor of the journey from his pores...
   Rising from the cleansing,  he vigorously dried...
     Carefully he unrolled the package he'd kept safe on his travels,  clean clothes , what a gift from heaven after his hard travels...
    ThunderIng the final miles the hooves and his heart flew.. 
       She stood in the doorway, hair flowing down ....tears in their eyes as they embraced ...

     If I was asked,  What are you missing...
    I'd probably reply, I think it's the kissing