There is a space

There is a space

It is left unfilled

The empty seat

The table deliberately chosen

By the window

Overlooking the street outside

The passersby unaware

Of their role

Players with walk on

Non-speaking parts

Filling the gap

Separated by glass

And body language

There is a wall

Silently constructed

Invisible

Yielding to the touch

But reactionary

Impervious to the chance encounter

Buffering the persistent demand

The smile

A pleasant diversion

The conversation

Readily relayed

Easily replayed

Hesitation is an anathema

Leaving a door open

Inviting a step inside

Turn the screw

Bolt it down

Tighten the bulwark

Lips are pursed

Against an unguarded remark

As the coffee gets cold

Daydreams

An instant transportation device

Free to roam without fear

Nothing can be borne

More than already experienced

A threshold of tolerance

A cushion upon which

The layers of his life

Are laid to rest

He sighs

Shoulders slumped

Turning in on himself

Away from the world

Gathering up his strength

Stuffing it into the hole

In his heart

Striding out with a wave

To the Barista

He will return tomorrow

Maybe to share silent

Acknowledgement

At a highlight

Of his day.