unexpected, although assuming
breathe, self -- he’s two feet away
and gazing at you
don’t look, don’t look, don’t look

heart pounding, walk past, stride gracefully
great job -- so far, so good
pretend you’re busy, smile
laugh if you must, do not look

i failed, he looked back
we caught each other
fixed eyes at one another
what is he thinking? should i smile?

tick tock tick -- the end