I watched her intently
behind the counter
as people came in and out
like rabid animals who
just had to have their
caffeine and nicotine.

She whirled one direction to another,
spinning to accompany the demands
of those handing her pennies and green bills.

Finally, as they all padded out
to empty homes, cold cars,
and snow-covered streets,
her attention was mine,
and when I claimed it, it fell
through my fingers like dust.

01/19/2002

Author's Note: this piece was written about my ex girlfriend, crystal, who worked in at a TEXACO awhile back. i hadn't talked with her since our rather ugly breakup, and when i saw her again, this is pretty much exactly what transpired. she always was the fickle, shallow kind. (the pretty ones usually are. :) )

Posted on 01/19/2002
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