Wanton

She knows the way I look
When I try not to look at all
This disinterested gaze
Hazy at best
Warning her that I’m here
Waiting for the pause
That proves she sees me
This shyness of spirit
Buoyant in recognition
Peeking from the shadows
Watching for a reciprocation
That almost never comes
But then hesitation shifts
To reveal her rare smile
Radiant as the noonday sun
Until I have to look away
Knowing she’ll do the same
Because she knows me
Even though we’ve never met
Doing this complicated dance
This shifting of feet
To prove we’re in control
Even though we’re not
So we strive to look away
While the world stands still
Waiting for us to connect
Even though we shouldn’t.

Sam