Lychee

i linger before the vendor’s stall,

beneath the striped awning’s shade

hesitate as i reach for the lychee,

a small fruit with rough, pink skin.

her knobbled shell is parched to my touch

undeniably, she’s unattractive at first glance

yet within, lies a jewel of glassy flesh

overflowing with fragrant nectar 

saccharine and delightful.