Eyeball to eyeball we faced off, me silently begging for a show, but he, a perfect specimen of a Red Spotted Purple, was coy and not about to let me see his full majesty on our first date.

He toyed with me, playing my anticipation like a fine violin. Teasing me with glimpses of blue perfection hidden between his upright wings.

He flashed a gorgeous side view and then flew off. Not yet comfortable with full exposure of his beauty.

Hours later he returned. Years in his short life. Years in mine as I feared I would never catch a second glimpse of his perfection.

This time, he graced me with a spectacular display. Posing in all his finery, willing to share his gifts.