coffeehouse hymn
her eyes carress him
from across the crowded room
he's sitting, facing her
and he's smiling
she picks up her cup
glancing down at her book
sees the shock of dark hair
and he's laughing
so how did she end up
so simply ignored and
why did it matter
if he wasn't alone
she twirls her hair
idly watching him drink
his delicious black coffee
and he's nodding
she understands how it is
the girl is now sorry
he's listening intently
and he's shrugging
so how did she end up
not knowing this person
and why did he falter
when he seemed so assured
she folds up her book
and puts on her coat
she watches him watch her
and he's staring
she heads out the door
tucks her book in her coat
she doesn't look back
and he's sighing
26 November, 1998.