An inherited trait
flippant off the cuff
snap and shuffle
move to the other side
without consequence
or confusion
The mind is clear
and sharp
but the heart
like a rebellious child
continues to skip
to its own count
And not even with
brighter days ahead
will the path change
or shift the tide
once the stone is etched
– because the sword
always cuts within
a fine line of what
is fair and just
There are no second chances
for the wise guy or his side kick
 
Subtleties fall like petals 
of a loving gesture 
from long ago
Slow-mo flash dancer
carries an attache
full of fake mustaches
and sunglasses
Perfected disguise 
for the boarder patrol 
to turn a blind eye
pretty Mae West doppelganger
…You smile and we know
A slight glance connecting
to the other side 
a strangers eyes 
shallow and well hidden 
The image is a tactic 
applied with reluctance 
Hushed tone finger to lips
– you never let them see 
your pupils dilate 

I whisper inside out 
with added hope 
that you will hear me 
and pray you won’t 
Left handed back slap 
glass tips wine spills 
dripping drops with 
a methodical sequence 
onto the tiled floor 
…and the count is off 
but the heat is on 
I see you sitting 
in the shadows
back table candle motive
shimmering light burns
Black shades drawn 
slick hat slightest tilt 
just enough to lay claim
your trade marked look;
just enough to rattle the cage
keeping me on off guard
intentional shove 
tap on the shoulder
always letting me know – a reminder

Subtleties fall like petals 
of a loving gesture 
from long ago
Slow-mo flash dancer
carries an attache
full of fake mustaches
and sunglasses
Perfected disguise 
for the boarder patrol 
to turn a blind eye
pretty Mae West doppelganger
…You smile and we know
A slight glance connecting
to the other side 
a strangers eyes 
shallow and well hidden 
The image is a tactic 
applied with reluctance 
Hushed tone finger to lips
you never let them see 
your pupils dilate 
you never let them see
your pupils dilate

© 2016 TrilbyYates