i get up slowly and make some small offhand comment
maybe a joke or observation
it doesn't actually matter
every second counts
i slip on my shoes and collect my things
as i walk towards the door i think about what i want to say
i turn around and give what i can only hope is a caring embrace
when i let go i'm met with a strong gaze
that's my cue to lean in
afterwards i deliver my half-baked message
i open the door and hit the pavement with my hood up
"what now?" i think