Her doe in the headlight stare

the man’s defiant stance, just

waiting, wanting…her to dare

but only the glaring notes bounced.

A diffident stranger watches

hoping she will look his way

noting the burly man, more notches

of arrogance in his demeanor.

She hesitantly glances back

before moving toward the door.

The deafening soundtrack

blasts silently, denying the moment.

The strangers stare offers assistance

she shudders and quickly shakes her head

hoping to deny any further insistence.

Praying he doesn’t see the stranger.

Her subdued plea shouts don’t intervene,

reluctantly the stranger walks away

frustrated with the whole damn scene.