friday afternoon
navigating carefully
senses heightened
on constant alert
always prepared
for an unforeseen encounter

they're scattered
all around town
like a living
breathing
moving
minefield

sighs of relief
as you enter a safe zone
and turn a corner
when out of nowhere

BAM

face-to-face with a coworker

muscles tense
heart sinks
mouth fakes a smile

as awkward small talk commences
and slowly drifts
to the one subject 
you'd so desperately 
tried to escape

work

and the week stretches on
into your precious weekend