She wasn’t a beauty
though pretty enough
Her gait charismatic
with looks to rebuff

He wanted to stop her
he waited and watched
For light in the tunnel
one chance not to botch

At last she took notice
his heart beating fast
Their eyes locked together
a fleeting repast

Time was suspended
new love in the air
As she boarded her plane
—leaving only a stare

(The New Room: November, 2023)