Meeting

So you ask me
“How are you?”

I imagine your hand
Reaching out
And one crooked finger
Gently under my chin
Looking for answers.

I imagine your feet
Daring me
Directly in my path
Holding me captive
Asking me again.

I imagine I dare
Meeting eyes
And in one mad moment
Unblinking, tell the truth
So help me God.

I imagine your eyes
Unwavering still
Sterner than ever
Finding me wanting
Turning me away.

I imagine I imagine
Yielding too
And drowning in smiles
In the circle of arms
Absolute madness.

But you see me
Wringing hands
An incoherent reply
You roll eyes skywards
And walk away.