I sit in one of our many local pubs
Sipping on strong cheap coffee
reading a damaged book, from a second hand bargain bin.

I don't look up much, I don't desire the opinions of others -
watching a young woman sat alone in a bar.
On the occasions that I do, I see couples and groups giggling idly in the late evening sun.

In my head I create my own version of their stories
who they are; where they've been.
I imagine they have lead a rich and fulfilled life, but
Reality?

Each a small city dweller, engulfed by the swollen population and streets scorched reputation.
Never to escape.