metronome pattern
every morning eight
oh-nine a.m.

just in time for
creamed coffee
and headlines

everything becomes
silent surrounding
the sonic field

    that leads
    that follows
    that's within

steps stepping
sequence ten
second rhythm

from back alley
toward front
boardwalk

by the kitchen
window drapes
drawn

    she glances
    she smiles
    she's gone.

the confidence
spawned from
high heels.